Kash Patel Sworn in as New FBI Director, Refers to It as the ‘Greatest Honor’

Kash Patel was formally sworn in as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Friday, after a close Senate confirmation vote of 51-49. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the White House, where Patel swore on the Bhagavad Gita, symbolizing his Indian-American background. In his speech, he called the appointment the “greatest honor” and pledged to defend the Constitution.

Patel’s appointment has been both applauded and criticized. Although a number of Republicans support his tenure, others such as Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted against his appointment alongside Democrats citing fears of political bias. Nonetheless, Patel has committed to ensuring the FBI’s independence and integrity.

Consistent with his vision to decentralize the operations of the agency, Patel announced plans to move as many as 1,500 FBI employees. This involves transferring 1,000 staff to field offices around the nation and 500 to a new complex in Huntsville, Alabama. This effort will decrease the Bureau’s Washington footprint and increase its emphasis on fighting violent crime across the nation.

Speaking to the press, Patel dismissed earlier negative reports by saying, “Bring it on,” and reiterated his commitment to openness and accountability within the Bureau.

While taking up his new role, Patel must tackle the challenge of steering the FBI through a charged political landscape and working to restore public trust and keep the agency’s core mandate intact.