Sen. Adam Schiff Opposes Kash Patel’s FBI Nomination

Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., voiced strong opposition Sunday to Kash Patel‘s nomination as FBI director, calling him unqualified and unfit for the role. Schiff made the remarks on NBC News‘ ‘Meet the Press,’ emphasizing the need for an experienced and impartial leader in the wake of recent violence, including the Jan. 6 Capitol attack and a New Year’s Day terror incident in New Orleans.

Schiff criticized Patel’s history of promoting baseless conspiracy theories, including claims of a ‘stolen’ 2020 election and the existence of a ‘deep state’ working against former President Donald Trump. ‘We need someone who prioritizes defending the country, not political vendettas,’ Schiff said. Patel, a staunch Trump loyalist, has faced scrutiny for comments made in 2023, where he vowed to target journalists, lawyers, and judges he believed were unfair to Trump.

In a podcast with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon, Patel stated, ‘We will go after the conspirators, not just in government but in the media.’ These remarks have resurfaced amid his nomination, raising concerns about his ability to lead the FBI impartially.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., offered a contrasting view, expressing optimism that Patel could reform the FBI and restore public trust. ‘The FBI needs a good makeover,’ Thune told ‘Meet the Press’ moderator Kristen Welker. He added that Patel understands the mission of protecting Americans and ensuring accountability.

However, Thune stopped short of confirming his support for Patel’s nomination, stating that he has not yet disclosed his position on individual nominees. The Senate is expected to vote on Patel’s confirmation in the coming weeks, with Democrats and some Republicans likely to oppose his appointment.