The White House is reportedly considering removing FBI Director Kash Patel after a series of damaging reports alleging erratic behavior, heavy drinking and past alcohol‑related arrests. Sources told Politico that President Trump is frustrated by recurring scandal-driven headlines. Patel has denied the claims and filed a $250 million defamation suit against The Atlantic, while the White House says he remains a "critical player."
White House Signals Kash Patel Could Be Next To Go After String Of Scandals
Eduardo Munoz / REUTERS(Eduardo Munoz)
FBI Director Kash Patel is reportedly under growing scrutiny at the White House, with senior officials telling Politico that his removal from the post is "only a matter of time." The disclosures follow a wave of negative reporting about Patel's conduct, public image and past behavior that some aides say have become a distraction for President Donald Trump as he prepares for the midterm elections.
Sources told Politico that the 79‑year‑old president is frustrated by recurring scandal-driven headlines involving Patel, 46, which officials believe are "not a good look for a Cabinet secretary." Patel has publicly defended his record as a prolific crime‑fighter while facing fresh allegations about erratic behavior and heavy drinking.
FBI Director Kash Patel speaks as his girlfriend Alexis Wilkins (C) looks on during his swearing-in ceremony on Feb. 21, 2025, in Washington, DC. / Getty Images
Last week, reporting described the FBI as alarmed by what colleagues characterized as unexplained absences and drinking that some feared could carry national security implications. Patel was already criticized after footage circulated showing him drinking in the locker room with the USA men’s hockey team following their gold‑medal victory at the Milan Olympics in February.
"It's only a matter of time," a senior White House official told Politico, referring to Patel's likely departure.
Patel angrily denied the accounts, calling them "hit piece lies," and on Monday filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic. But further reporting intensified scrutiny: a retired 17‑year FBI veteran told The New York Times podcast The Daily that Patel's publicity stunts at Quantico—videos described as "cosplaying as Rambo"—made him appear "childish" and undermined the gravity of the FBI's work.
Kash Patel / X/@FBIDirectorKash
The New York Times also reported that the FBI sought to investigate a reporter who wrote about Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, although Department of Justice officials intervened to halt that inquiry. The Intercept published records suggesting Patel disclosed two alcohol‑related arrests to the Florida Bar in 2005, including an incident described as public urination.
Political context matters: Trump has recently dismissed several Cabinet members amid negative coverage and is reportedly considering a broader reshuffle to shore up his administration before the midterms. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Politico Patel remains a "critical player" on the team, but the evolving headlines have raised questions about whether he will survive the next round of personnel changes.
The White House did not immediately respond to additional requests for comment.
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