FBI Director Kash Patel faces uncertain future amid controversies: Report
New Delhi: Kash Patel, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is reportedly likely to be removed from his position in the administration of Donald Trump, according to recent media reports citing senior White House officials.
The development comes amid a series of controversies surrounding Patel, with reports suggesting that his position has become increasingly tenuous. A White House official was quoted as saying that it is “only a matter of time” before action is taken.
The report surfaced shortly before a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, adding to the tense political environment.
Patel, who gained prominence for his strong stance against what he described as the “deep state” and his alignment with Trump’s political messaging during the 2024 election campaign, has faced scrutiny over allegations related to past alcohol-related incidents. Reports indicate that he had acknowledged two prior arrests linked to public drinking during his student years.
Further pressure has come from members of the Democratic Party, who have called for Patel to undergo an evaluation related to alcohol consumption patterns. Despite the allegations, Patel has maintained that he has never been intoxicated while on duty.
In March, a hacking incident reportedly linked to an Iran-associated group compromised Patel’s personal email account, leading to the publication of personal material. A Justice Department official confirmed that the breach appeared to be authentic.
The situation follows the recent dismissal of Pam Bondi as US Attorney General earlier this month, a move reportedly driven by dissatisfaction within the administration over legal and political developments. Patel is considered to be among officials whose positions may be under review following her removal.
Despite ongoing speculation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump continues to have confidence in Patel. In response to media reports, Patel has filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic, alleging defamation over claims regarding his conduct.
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Siddaramaiah, I will abide by Cong high command decision on leadership issue, says Shivakumar
Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday said both he and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will abide by any decision takeb by the Congress high command on the leadership issue in the state.
Speaking to reporters after returning from Delhi, the Congress state president said, he has full faith in the party leadership and that it would take an approapriate decision at the appropriate time.
The remarks comes amid speculations within the party and political circles about a possible leadership change and cabinet reshuffle after May 4, when the results for assembly elections in four states and one union territory, along with bypolls to two assembly segments in the Karnataka are announced.
"I will not speak about political issues before the media. I have already said that when the time comes you will get to know. So I will not tell you," Shivakumar said in response to a question on discussions with the Congress high command during his Delhi visit over the last couple of days.
He asserted that there are no issues within the party, and whatever has been already decided will take place accordingly.
Responding to a question on senior Minister Satish Jarkiholi's reported statement about internal differences, the Deputy CM said, "nothing like that, they (high command) will do what they have to do at the appropriate time."
"There are no issues, we have faith in our party, they will do what they have to," he added.
Asked about the issue of leadership change as the government is about to complete three years in office, Shivakumar said, "... I have never discussed this issue. The CM and I have both said that we will accept whatever and whenever the high command decides, and we will abide by it."
He declined to comment when asked whether any "good news" can be expected by his birthday on May 15.
The leadership tussle within the ruling party has intensified amid speculation about a possible change of chief minister after the Congress government completed the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, 2025. The speculation has been fuelled by the reported "power-sharing" arrangement between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar at the time of government formation in 2023.
Responding to a question on the BJP's criticism against the Congress government over its decision on internal reservation for Scheduled Castes, alleging injustice to several communities and questioning its intent behind the revised quota formula, Shivakumar said the BJP could not do anything on internal reservation while in power, but the Congress has kept its promise.
"We have found a solution and tried to do justice to all sections among SCs. We have fulfilled the promise made and every one should go together," he said.
Shivakumar warned his party workers against erecting flex banners for his birthday on May 15.
"For May 15, I want to tell everyone that no one should put up flex banners or advertisements for my birthday. If flex are installed I will ensure that cases are registered by authorities against those responsible, whether they are party workers or followers....no one should put such things on roads, this is my personal request," he said, adding that he has asked commissioners of the city corporations to register cases and impose heavy fines.
