Patel denies heavy-drinking claims as FBI leadership faces renewed scrutiny
The Atlantic report alleges FBI Director Kash Patel drinks heavily and is frequently unreachable, prompting his threat to sue and fueling questions about his leadership. Patel denies the accusations, while critics point to past incidents—such as public announcements about investigations, use of a government jet for personal leisure, and a Milan trip to watch hockey—that critics say show poor judgment. A group of current and former FBI agents cited in the piece says he is “in over his head,” even as White House aides defend him amid a crime decline, though security officials warned Patel’s behavior has, at times, forced meeting reschedulings and raised concerns about public safety in the event of an attack; the article also notes a reported request for “breaching equipment” when officials could not reach him.