White House Dismisses Reports of Trump Firing FBI Director Kash Patel as “Completely Made Up”

The White House has firmly denied reports that President Donald Trump plans to remove FBI Director Kash Patel. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued the denial on social media. The statement came in response to a news report suggesting Patel could be replaced.

Leavitt stated the story broke while President Trump was meeting with his law enforcement team. She said the President laughed when the headline was read to him. This public dismissal aims to quell speculation about Patel’s job security.

Speculation and Scrutiny Surround FBI Leadership

According to a report from MS NOW, Trump was considering a plan to replace Patel. The outlet suggested FBI co-deputy director Andrew Bailey was a potential successor. This speculation arose amid growing questions about Patel’s conduct.

The report cited scrutiny over Patel’s use of a government jet for personal trips. It also mentioned his social media activity during sensitive investigations. MS NOW has stated it stands by its reporting despite the White House denial.

Both Patel and fellow deputy Dan Bongino are known for conservative commentary. Their backgrounds differ from traditional law enforcement paths. This has contributed to ongoing chatter about their positions.

Ongoing Controversies and Presidential Support

Patel has recently faced multiple controversies. The New York Times reported the FBI sent a SWAT team to protect his girlfriend, singer Alexis Wilkins. Patel has also used government aircraft for personal travel, including golf outings.

He has defended his travel as necessary for secure communications. Legal experts have also flagged his habit of posting about active investigations online. These posts included commentary on high-profile cases.

Despite this scrutiny, Trump publicly praised Patel just last week. In a Fox News Radio interview, the president expressed “a lot of confidence” in the FBI chief. This support contrasts with the rumors of his potential removal.

The White House’s firm denial seeks to end speculation about FBI Director Kash Patel’s position. For now, Patel appears to retain the president’s confidence despite mounting controversies. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions within the nation’s top law enforcement agency.

Info at your fingertips

Is the White House denying reports about Kash Patel?

Yes. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explicitly called the story “completely made up.” She stated President Trump was meeting with Patel when the story broke.

Why was there speculation about Patel being replaced?

Reports suggested the move was considered due to growing scrutiny. This included questions about his social media use and personal travel on government jets.

Who was named as a potential replacement for Patel?

MS NOW reported that FBI co-deputy director Andrew Bailey was a candidate. Bailey is a former Missouri attorney general seen as a potential successor.

What controversies has Patel recently faced?

Patel has faced scrutiny for using a government jet for personal trips. He also attracted attention for FBI protection provided to his girlfriend.

Has Trump recently commented on his confidence in Patel?

Yes. In a recent Fox News Radio interview, President Trump said he had “a lot of confidence” in the FBI director. This praise came just last week.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, Bloomberg, New York Times, Fox News Radio.