During his Senate confirmation hearing on January 30, 2025, Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s nominee for FBI Director, committed to halting the agency’s surveillance of religious institutions, particularly Christian congregations.
In response to Senator Josh Hawley’s 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.”
He assured the committee that, if confirmed, he would withdraw this memo and affirm its violation of the First Amendment. He also pledged to investigate the origins of the memo, identify those responsible, and hold them accountable for breaching the public’s trust in the FBI.
Senator Hawley emphasized the gravity of the situation, expressing disbelief that such actions could occur in the United States. He underscored the need to restore the FBI’s integrity and prevent political corruption within the agency.
This development follows President Trump’s recent announcement to pardon pro-life activists convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act during the Biden administration. Additionally, Senator Mike Lee has introduced legislation to dismantle the FACE Act, citing concerns over its use against pro-life groups and Christians.
