MSNBC issued a public correction Monday after contributor and former FBI Assistant Director Frank Figliuzzi falsely claimed that FBI Director Kash Patel was seen more often at nightclubs than at his office. The unverified accusation was made Friday during a segment criticizing Patel’s leadership and alleging internal “chaos” at the FBI.
Figliuzzi stated, “Reportedly, he’s been visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover Building,” during an on-air appearance. No sources or evidence were cited.
On Monday’s Morning Joe, host Jonathan Lemire addressed the controversy directly. “This was a misstatement. We have not verified that claim,” he said, walking back Figliuzzi’s remarks and clarifying that MSNBC had no confirmation of the allegations.
The network correction follows increasing scrutiny over partisan commentary presented as fact, especially in discussions involving Trump administration officials. Kash Patel, a former Trump national security aide, was appointed FBI Director after President Donald Trump returned to office. His tenure has drawn criticism from former intelligence officials but also praise from conservatives for pushing internal reforms.
Patel has advocated downsizing the FBI and decentralizing its operations. Despite backlash, the agency has experienced a surge in job applications under his leadership, signaling increased public interest in federal law enforcement careers.
The correction did not include an apology from Figliuzzi, nor did it offer further details on the source of the original claim. However, the incident adds to the growing calls for accountability in media coverage of officials aligned with the Trump administration.
