By Krishika Dinesh Rathod
Kash Patel, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s ninth director, took his oath on Saturday, placing his palm on the Bhagavad Gita. US Attorney General Pam Bondi gave the oath ceremony at the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building (EEOB) on the White House site in Washington.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised Patel’s appointment, highlighting his strong backing from FBI officers. “One of the reasons I admire Kash and chose him for the role is the immense respect he commands among the agents,” Trump stated to reporters.
Trey Gowdy made a significant remark, stating, “Kash is an incredible person, and people don’t realize it.” He predicted that Kash would be remembered as the best in his role, noting how easily he was approved. “He’s tough, strong, and has his own opinions,” Gowdy added, emphasizing the weight of his statement as someone respected and known for his moderate stance.
Patel’s nomination was confirmed by the Senate on Thursday with a narrow 51–49 vote. Democrats opposed his appointment, as did two Republicans, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine.
Patel, a former counterterrorism prosecutor and the defence secretary’s chief of staff, has been outspoken in his criticism of the FBI. Democrats are concerned about his confirmation because they question the agency’s independence under his direction.
He takes over for Christopher Wray, who was nominated by Trump in 2017 but resigned after a falling out with him.
To shield the organisation from political interference, FBI directors often hold office for ten years. Patel’s strong relationship with Trump has raised concerns about whether he will continue that custom.
Democrats had previously claimed that his appointment may damage the FBI’s reputation. “The FBI should not be Donald Trump’s army,” Democratic Senator Adam Schiff stated. Following his confirmation, Patel pledged to restore the agency’s credibility. In a statement, he declared, “My mission as Director is clear: let good cops be cops and rebuild trust in the FBI.”