SUMMARY
Kash Patel, a former Trump administration official and federal prosecutor, was confirmed as FBI Director on February 20, 2025, after a tight 51-49 Senate vote. Despite fierce pushback from Democrats, who called him “dangerous” and tried to stall his nomination, Patel secured the role without support from GOP Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, who joined Democrats in opposition. President Trump picked Patel shortly after his November election win, praising his work exposing the “Russia Hoax” and his extensive experience, including roles as Pentagon Chief of Staff and Senior Director for Counterterrorism. Democrats, led by Dick Durbin, demanded extra hearings after a contentious six-hour session on January 30, but Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley shot that down, saying Patel’s record spoke for itself. Patel replaces Christopher Wray, starting a 10-year term amid polarized reactions—cheered by Trump allies, dreaded by critics like Adam Schiff.
