NEW: GOP Senator Comes Out Against Kash Patel's Confirmation
Republican Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) has announced she will not support President Donald Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel to serve as director of the FBI,
Republican Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) has announced she will not support President Donald Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel to serve as director of the FBI, a move that could complicate Patel’s confirmation process. In a statement released Thursday, Collins cited concerns about Patel’s background and qualifications.
“The nomination of Kash Patel to serve as Director of the FBI comes to the Senate against the backdrop of recent personnel actions at the Department of Justice, including the resignations of several career federal prosecutors who felt they were being instructed to act in a manner inconsistent with their ethical obligations,” Collins wrote.
“In addition, a questionnaire has been sent to thousands of FBI employees regarding their involvement in certain investigations. As I have stated previously, these initiatives raise the specter that adverse actions could be taken against FBI employees – including special agents in the field – who have dedicated their careers to public service and who do not choose their assignments.”
FBI agents have filed a lawsuit to prevent the Department of Justice from disclosing the names of agents involved in the cases, citing concerns over potential retaliation.
“It is critical that any efforts to promote accountability at the FBI be carefully calibrated and not have the effect of driving away dedicated public servants who keep our country and communities safe,” her statement read, released just before a key procedural vote. “The nomination of Kash Patel to serve as Director of the FBI comes to the Senate against the backdrop of recent personnel actions at the Department of Justice, including the resignations of several career federal prosecutors who felt they were being instructed to act in a manner inconsistent with their ethical obligations.”
“While I strongly support efforts to ensure all federal employees perform their responsibilities ethically and in accordance with the law, Mr. Patel’s recent political profile undermines his ability to serve in the apolitical role of Director of the FBI.” She finished, “Therefore, I will vote against his nomination.”
Patel’s nomination as Director of the FBI has been a focal point since President Trump announced his intent to appoint him in November. A longtime Trump ally and former national security official, Patel has been a controversial figure, praised by supporters for his role in exposing FBI misconduct but criticized by detractors for his close ties to Trump.
During his hearing, Patel faced rigorous questioning from Democratic senators regarding his past statements and actions. Despite some concerns, the committee advanced his nomination with a 12-10 party-line vote on February 13.
After, the Senate voted 51-47 to close debate on Patel’s nomination, positioning him on the brink of confirmation to lead the FBI. Despite Collins announcing her opposition, Patel is still anticipated to be confirmed easily.
Patel’s final confirmation vote is scheduled for Thursday afternoon. He would succeed Christopher Wray.
Collins has recently opposed several of President Trump’s Cabinet nominations. Notably, she voted against the confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, citing concerns over his qualifications and past behavior. Despite her opposition, Hegseth was confirmed following a narrow 51-50 Senate vote.
Collins and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) were the only Republican senators to vote against advancing Hegseth’s nomination.