Lindsey Graham - Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on the Judiciary | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Lindsey Graham - Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on the Judiciary | Official U.S. Senate headshot
In a recent Senate floor speech, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin voiced strong opposition to the nomination of Kash Patel as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Durbin criticized Patel's loyalty to former President Trump and expressed concerns about his qualifications and alleged extremism.
Durbin emphasized that confirming Patel would be a mistake for Senate Republicans, stating, "If Senate Republicans confirm Mr. Patel, I believe they will come to regret this vote, probably sooner rather than later." He noted his own bipartisan voting record on previous FBI Director nominations but argued against Patel due to his political extremism.
Highlighting whistleblower allegations, Durbin accused Patel of involvement in purging senior law enforcement officials at the FBI. He stated, "This purge has dramatically weakened the FBI’s ability to combat national security threats and has made Americans less safe."
Durbin also referenced threats faced by FBI agents linked to January 6 insurrection investigations. He mentioned Edward Kelley, who was pardoned by Trump despite convictions related to assaulting law enforcement during the Capitol attack.
Patel's statements under oath were called into question by Durbin, who claimed they contradicted evidence from whistleblowers. "Mr. Patel likely committed perjury," Durbin asserted regarding Patel's denial of knowledge about potential firings at the FBI.
Further examples of dishonesty included interactions with Stew Peters and involvement in recording January 6 rioters singing for fundraising purposes. Despite testimony denying such involvement, quotes attributed to Patel suggested otherwise.
Durbin cited warnings from Trump's former appointees against nominating Patel as FBI director. These figures included Attorney General Barr and National Security Advisor John Bolton.
In conclusion, Durbin warned that appointing Patel could undermine the FBI's independence and effectiveness: "Mr. Patel’s record demonstrates that he is dangerous, inexperienced, and dishonest."
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