The Senate Judiciary Committee advanced Kash Patel in a 12-10 vote.
The vote was previously delayed after Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats had concerns over Patel’s past actions and statements.
During his January 30 Senate confirmation hearing, Patel committed to halting the agency’s surveillance of religious institutions, particularly Christian congregations.
In response to Senator Josh Hawley’s (R-MO) inquiry about the FBI’s past efforts to recruit informants within Catholic parishes, Patel stated, “I don’t believe so, senator,” indicating his disapproval of such practices.
Patel acknowledged awareness of an internal FBI memo that listed Catholic churches as potential targets for informant recruitment. Hawley questioned, “Mr. Patel, would you commit to me that you will, if you are confirmed, that you will finally and officially withdraw this memo and make it clear that this is not only unacceptable, but that it is an absolute violation of the First Amendment, that every American voice under the Constitution of the United States.”
In nominating Patel for FBI Director, President Donald Trump said, “I am proud to announce that Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel will serve as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Kash is a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and “America First” fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People. He played a pivotal role in uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, standing as an advocate for truth, accountability, and the Constitution.”
Patel noted that it is the “honor of a lifetime to be nominated by President Trump to serve as Director of the FBI. Together, we will restore integrity, accountability, and equal justice to our justice system and return the FBI to its rightful mission: protecting the American people.”
