All articles tagged with #drinking allegations
During a Senate Appropriations hearing, FBI Director Kash Patel sparred with Sen. Chris Van Hollen after the Democrat cited media reports alleging Patel’s excessive drinking and unexplained absences; Patel denied the claims, clashed with Van Hollen, and even offered to take a test if asked, while noting he has sued The Atlantic over the allegations.
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.
Pete Hegseth, a former co-host of "Fox & Friends Weekend" and President-elect Donald Trump's pick for defense secretary, has faced concerns from colleagues at Fox News about his drinking habits. According to NBC News, multiple sources reported smelling alcohol on Hegseth before broadcasts and hearing him discuss hangovers. Allegations of heavy drinking also surfaced from his previous roles at veterans' nonprofits. Despite these concerns, Hegseth's lawyer and the Trump transition team have dismissed the claims as unfounded. The situation raises questions about his suitability for the demanding role of defense secretary.