FBI Leadership Shakeup: Trump Considers Andrew Bailey to Replace Embattled Kash Patel

President Donald Trump is weighing a major change in FBI leadership. He is considering replacing current Director Kash Patel. The potential replacement is Andrew Bailey, the agency’s co-deputy director.

This move follows growing discontent within the administration. According to MN Now, controversies surrounding Patel’s use of agency resources have prompted the review. A White House spokesperson has denied the claims, affirming Patel’s role.

Controversies Fueling the Potential Change

Reports indicate the administration is unhappy with Patel’s management. His handling of the agency’s vast resources is a key concern. This includes the deployment of personnel for non-official duties.

One significant issue involves Patel’s girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins. He reportedly used an FBI jet to attend her wrestling event. The trip allegedly cost the agency $60 million.

Patel also deployed SWAT teams for her personal security. These actions have drawn sharp criticism from observers. They have created a public relations challenge for the administration.

Who Is Andrew Bailey, the Potential Successor?

Andrew Bailey is a Republican attorney and U.S. Army veteran. He joined the Trump administration earlier this year as the FBI’s deputy director. Before that, he served as the Missouri Attorney General from 2023 to 2025.

In Missouri, he was known for strong conservative stances. He advocated for abortion restrictions and limits on gender-affirming care. He resigned in August 2025 to take his current federal role.

Bailey is considered a top Trump ally. He has a history of legal defense for the president. He sued New York following Trump’s 2024 conviction, alleging election interference.

His military background includes a deployment to Iraq. He served as an Armored Cavalry Officer during the Iraq War. This experience informs his approach to law enforcement and national security.

The potential FBI leadership shakeup highlights the administration’s focus on agency integrity. Replacing Kash Patel with Andrew Bailey would signal a significant directional shift. This move aims to stabilize the bureau amid recent controversies.

Info at your fingertips

Why is Kash Patel potentially being replaced?

Reports suggest the Trump administration is unhappy with his resource management. This includes a costly trip on an FBI jet and deploying SWAT teams for his girlfriend’s security.

What is Andrew Bailey’s background?

Andrew Bailey is the current FBI co-deputy director. He previously served as Missouri Attorney General and is a U.S. Army veteran who deployed to Iraq.

Has the White House confirmed this change?

No, a White House spokesperson has denied the reports. They stated that Kash Patel remains a critical member of the President’s team.

What are Andrew Bailey’s known political stances?

As Missouri Attorney General, he was known for conservative positions. He challenged Biden administration policies on abortion pills and transgender care.

How did Kash Patel use FBI resources controversially?

He allegedly used an FBI jet for personal travel, costing $60 million. He also assigned a SWAT team for his girlfriend’s personal security detail.

Trusted Sources

MN Now, Reuters