‘Mission first, America always’: Trump loyalist Kash Patel takes charge as FBI director

Following his confirmation, Patel expressed gratitude to Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their support.

The Senate confirmed Indian-origin Kash Patel as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Thursday. Patel, a close ally of President Donald Trump, vowed to restore public trust in the agency by making it "transparent, accountable, and committed to justice."

Following his confirmation, Patel expressed gratitude to Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their support. In a post on X, he outlined his priorities, stressing the need to rebuild trust in the FBI and allow “good cops to be cops.” He also warned those seeking to harm Americans, stating, "We will hunt you down in every corner of this planet."

I am honored to be confirmed as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.Thank you to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for your unwavering confidence and support.The FBI has a storied legacyfrom the G-Men to safeguarding our nation in the wake of
FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) February 20, 2025

The White House’s official account, handled by aide Dan Scavino, marked Patel’s confirmation in an unconventional way—using a Bollywood movie meme, which quickly went viral.

Congratulations to the new Director of the FBI, @Kash_Patel! pic.twitter.com/JsANV0s9cP Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) February 20, 2025

Patel inherits an FBI in turmoil, following a series of senior official departures and a Justice Department request for the names of agents involved in the January 6 Capitol riot investigations. His appointment has been met with strong reactions from both sides of the political spectrum.

A longtime critic of the FBI’s leadership, Patel has spoken about shifting the agency’s focus back to traditional crime-fighting over intelligence and national security, noted the Associated Press. However, his past remarks have sparked concerns, particularly among Democrats. Before his nomination, Patel had stated that he would “come after” those he considered anti-Trump conspirators within the government and media.

Patel’s confirmation has deepened political divisions. As per the Associated Press report Republicans backed him as a reformer who would restore accountability, while Democrats opposed his nomination, citing his lack of management experience and inflammatory past statements.

“This vote will haunt anyone who supports him,” warned Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut. Other Democrats echoed concerns over Patel’s alleged plans to overhaul the FBI in ways that could politicise law enforcement, the the Associated Press report added.

Despite Democratic opposition, Patel secured enough votes to become the FBI’s ninth director. He replaces Christopher Wray, who resigned ahead of Trump’s return to office after serving for more than seven years.

A federal defender and counterterrorism prosecutor, Patel gained prominence in Trump’s first term for challenging the FBI’s handling of the Russia investigation. He later held key roles in the National Security Council and the Department of Defense.

As Patel assumes leadership, all eyes are on how he will navigate the political and operational challenges facing the FBI. His first actions in office will likely set the tone for what promises to be a highly scrutinised tenure.