FBI Director Kash Patel has become the center of a political storm in Washington after reports surfaced alleging he misused federal resources to provide special security arrangements for his girlfriend, singer Alexis Wilkins. The controversy has intensified to the point where President Donald Trump is reportedly considering removing him from the post.
The issue exploded after The New York Times published a report claiming Patel bypassed established protocols to assign federal agents and government assets for his girlfriend’s protection — a move critics argue violates FBI policy.
Misuse of Federal Resources Sparks Outrage
According to an MS NOW report, Trump and senior advisers have grown increasingly frustrated by the series of negative headlines linked to Patel. Three sources familiar with internal discussions revealed that concerns include:
- use of federal agents for Wilkins’ personal security
- use of a government jet for private travel
- tensions between Patel and other Trump-aligned officials
Insiders say Patel’s position has become “extremely fragile,” and Trump’s team has begun exploring potential replacements. Andrew Bailey, currently a top FBI official and former Missouri Attorney General, is reportedly the leading candidate — though the final decision may still evolve in the coming weeks.
White House Issues Mixed Signals
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson defended Patel, stating that the administration has “one of the most talented teams ever assembled” and that Patel is working tirelessly to restore the FBI’s credibility. During a Thanksgiving event, Trump also publicly praised him.
But the messaging has been inconsistent. After rumors of Patel’s possible removal spread, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed the reports as “completely false,” posting that Trump even laughed off the story while posing for a photo with Patel.
Complaints From the Justice Department
Reports suggest US Attorney General Pam Bondi has been displeased with Patel’s conduct, particularly regarding social media posts that allegedly compromised sensitive investigations by being shared prematurely.
A whistleblower added fuel to the fire, accusing Patel of using a government jet to attend his girlfriend’s music performance — a trip critics sarcastically dubbed a “date night flight.” There are also questions about whether an FBI SWAT team was deployed to provide personal security for Wilkins.
Possible Leadership Shuffle at the FBI
Trump appointed Andrew Bailey as co-deputy director in September. Bailey is viewed within the agency as stable, experienced and relatively non-controversial. Under federal law, he could be named acting FBI Director from December 15, serving up to 210 days without Senate confirmation.
Although the White House continues to publicly support Patel, the growing tension, internal dissatisfaction and ongoing allegations have made his future highly uncertain.
The coming weeks — and President Trump’s final decision — will determine whether Patel can survive the controversy or becomes the next high-profile ousting in Washington.