FBI Under Kash Patel Faces Criticism Over Leadership Challenges

The leadership of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under Director Kash Patel has come under intense scrutiny, following the release of a detailed report that outlines significant concerns about the agency’s current state. Compiled by a coalition of retired and active FBI special agents and analysts, the 115-page document presents a troubling picture of an organization described as “internally paralyzed by fear” and suffering from low morale.

The assessment, obtained by the New York Post, was prepared for congressional judiciary committees and is based on confidential insights from 24 FBI sources. These insiders claim that Patel, who took office in February 2025, lacks the necessary experience to effectively lead the bureau, resulting in a “chronically under-performing” organization. They assert that managers are hesitant to take initiative, fearing job loss without direct orders from Patel.

The report characterizes the FBI as a “rudderless ship” and highlights a culture where employees are reluctant to act independently. This atmosphere of fear reportedly stems from Patel’s previous public comments, where he accused the FBI of being part of a “deep state” conspiracy against former President Donald Trump and advocated for a radical overhaul of the agency.

In response to the report, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson defended Patel, stating, “President Trump has assembled the most talented and impressive administration in history,” and praised Patel’s efforts to restore integrity to the FBI.

The controversies surrounding Patel’s leadership extend beyond the report’s findings. Prior to his confirmation, nearly 60 civil rights organizations urged the Senate to reject his nomination due to concerns about his experience and previous statements. Since taking office, Patel has faced backlash for his handling of sensitive investigations, including the controversial decision not to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

A particularly troubling incident highlighted in the report involved Patel’s behavior during the investigation into the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. After arriving in Provo, Utah, he reportedly caused a disruption by demanding a specific jacket before exiting an FBI jet, which required agents to stop their work to accommodate him.

Additionally, the report reveals that Patel and Dan Bongino, the deputy director, have faced criticism for what sources describe as an excessive focus on social media. Employees noted that they often received more information about the bureau’s mission through social media than through official internal channels.

While the report paints a largely negative picture, there are some positive remarks regarding Patel’s rollback of diversity and equity initiatives and improvements in prosecutorial support compared to the previous administration. Nevertheless, many sources believe that reforms have not gone deep enough and call for accountability among senior executives.

Concerns have also emerged from international law enforcement and intelligence agencies, which fear that the current administration may jeopardize long-term international cooperation. The anonymous authors of the report stated that their assessment was not intended as a hit piece, but rather a reflection of the sentiments expressed by FBI personnel.

The congressional judiciary committees mentioned in the report are set to receive a copy of the assessment soon. The White House has denied allegations suggesting that President Trump plans to dismiss Patel in the near future. The ongoing challenges faced by the FBI under Patel’s leadership raise important questions about the agency’s future direction and its ability to fulfill its critical role in national security and law enforcement.