Kash Patel becomes FBI’s new Director

The Republican-controlled US Senate has confirmed Kash Patel, a loyalist of President Donald Trump, to be director of the country's top law enforcement agency, FBI. Patel, 44, whose nomination sparked fierce opposition from Democrats, was approved by a 51-49 vote. Patel drew flak from Democrats for his promotion of conspiracy theories, and his defense of pro-Trump rioters who attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

His nomination faced opposition from Republican Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Susan Collins of Maine, Patel received backing from the rest of the Republican Party, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who had previously opposed other Trump nominees.

Patel thanked President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi for their support and emphasised his commitment to restoring public trust in the FBI.

Sharing a post on X, Patel said, "I am honoured to be confirmed as the ninth Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Thank you to President Trump and Attorney General Bondi for your unwavering confidence and support."

He added, "The FBI has a storied legacy--from the "G-Men" to safeguarding our nation in the wake of 9/11. The American people deserve an FBI that is transparent, accountable, and committed to justice. The politicalization of our justice system has eroded public trust--but that ends today."

Meanwhile, Trump's assistant and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino went all Bollywood to congratulate Patel for getting the top job. Scavino took to X to share a dance clip of the hit song 'Malhari' from Bajirao Mastani featuring Ranveer Singh. The number that saw Singh putting up a stunning performance was edited with Patel's face superimposed onto that of the actor.

"Congratulations to the new Director of the FBI, Kash Patel," the tweet read.