Patel under fire as ousted FBI officials sue, conservatives question leadership

FBI Director Kash Patel is facing heightened criticism from conservative allies and a federal lawsuit by three dismissed senior officials alleging politically motivated firings.

Mounting concerns: Patel’s competency has drawn sharp questions after his mishandled public communications amid the Charlie Kirk murder investigation. The director posted on social media Wednesday that authorities had the shooter in custody, then backtracked within hours as Utah officials announced the suspect remained at large. His misstep prompted prominent right-wing activist Christopher Rufo to question on X whether he “has what it takes” to lead the FBI, while commentator Erick Erickson called the agency’s situation “concerning.”

Internal tensions erupted Thursday when Patel allegedly berated agents during a videoconference for delays in sharing suspect photos, using profanity while condemning what he called “Mickey Mouse operations.” Critics argue his removal of veteran investigators, including the former Salt Lake City field office head with specialized expertise in political violence cases, may have undermined the bureau’s investigative capabilities.

Legal challenge: Three terminated FBI executives filed suit last Wednesday claiming Patel acknowledged violating federal law by dismissing them for political reasons. The complaint alleges that Patel told former acting Director Brian Driscoll the terminations were “likely illegal” but necessary because “the FBI tried to put the president in jail and he hasn’t forgotten it.” Driscoll, Steve Jensen and Spencer Evans contend they were removed despite exemplary service records after refusing White House demands to target agents involved in Trump investigations. The firings, they say, represent a “campaign of retribution” that compromised national security by eliminating experienced counterterrorism leadership.

What’s next: The challenges intensify this week as Patel heads for congressional scrutiny over the FBI’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. Patel will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday, followed by House Judiciary questioning scheduled Wednesday. Meanwhile, the administration has responded to the criticism by installing Missouri Atty. Gen. Andrew Bailey as deputy director alongside Dan Bongino, signaling potential leadership restructuring. Despite the controversy, Trump has praised Patel’s Kirk investigation work, telling Fox News, “I am very proud of the FBI. Kash — and everyone else — they have done a great job.”