A report released on March 24, 2024, by active-duty and retired FBI agents has raised serious concerns about the leadership of Director Kash Patel. The document, titled “A Pulse Check of the First Six Months,” was obtained by the New York Post and describes the agency as a “rudderless ship” under Patel’s direction. The report, compiled by 24 agents, indicates that morale within the bureau is alarmingly low, with many agents feeling a lack of direction and support.
The findings emphasize that Patel “has neither the breadth of experience nor the bearing an FBI director needs to be successful.” While one source described Patel as “very personable and likable,” they also criticized him for fostering “a culture of mistrust and uncertainty among the ranks.” Furthermore, some leaders within the FBI reportedly feel compelled to remain silent due to fears of job security, with one source stating, “They do not want to be terminated from employment.”
Criticism extends to Deputy Director Dan Bongino, who was labeled “something of a clown” in the report. Bongino responded via social media platform X, dismissing the report as “gossipy nonsense” from sources with “a clear agenda.” He added, “A LOT of people are very upset at the changes and reforms we’ve made at the FBI,” implying that dissent within the agency is linked to efforts to modernize operations.
A notable incident highlighted in the report involved Patel’s response during a visit to Utah following the assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. According to the account, Patel “refused” to leave his plane without donning an FBI raid jacket, leading agents at the scene to scramble to find one that fit him. The report indicates that two agents even removed their own patches to provide Patel with the appropriate attire.
The timing of this report comes amid speculation about Patel’s future in his role. Reports from MSNBC suggest that former President Donald Trump is “considering” replacing Patel, citing frustrations over the negative press surrounding his leadership. In response to these rumors, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on X that the claims are “fake news,” calling the story “completely made up.”
As the FBI navigates this challenging chapter under Patel, the implications of the report could lead to significant changes within the agency. The internal dissent, as documented in the report, raises questions about the future direction of the FBI and the leadership style of its current director. With ongoing scrutiny from various quarters, the coming months may prove crucial for both Patel and the institution he leads.
