FBI’s Kash Patel denies excess drinking amid officials’ US security concerns
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- FBI Director Kash Patel denies allegations of heavy drinking and being unreachable during his tenure, threatening to sue the Atlantic for its recent report.
- The Atlantic's report, based on accounts from two dozen current and former officials, claims Patel's excessive alcohol use has disrupted meetings and raised concerns about his leadership and professionalism.
- Patel has faced prior criticism for premature public announcements and controversial use of government resources, with a previous report stating he lacks the necessary expertise for leading the FBI.
- Despite these issues, the White House defends Patel, citing a significant drop in crime rates and his role in the administration's law enforcement efforts since President Trump took office.
- Some officials worry Patel's behavior poses a public safety risk, especially in the event of a domestic terrorist attack, highlighting incidents where his security detail struggled to reach him.
