Kash Patel, a former aide to Representative Devin Nunes and a key figure in the Trump administration, has drawn attention once again with his recent book, “Government Gangsters.” In the midst of this expansive tale, Patel introduces a litany of over 60 people that he dubs “deep state” actors. This addition has caused quite a ruckus, as he counters the painting of the list as an enemies list. His claims come amidst a broader discussion about the FBI‘s conduct during investigations related to Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.
In the memo, Patel alleged the FBI’s flubs were egregious. He alleged they had used the wrong warrant to surveil Carter Page, one of the Trump campaign’s former advisors. His allegations point to a huge failure of accountability within the agency related to its management of sensitive investigations. Patel’s criticisms extend to FBI analyst Brian Auten, whom he accused of downplaying crucial information from Hunter Biden’s laptop. These misleading claims have only deepened the scrutiny on the FBI’s operations and on the agency’s decisions to hire and retain its personnel.
Patel, who served on the White House National Security Council during Trump’s first term, has his own connections to the investigations into the links between Trump’s campaign and Russia. He is unique in playing this double role during these events. This has made him a critic and a participant in the continuing drama of alleged misconduct at the FBI.
In fact, former FBI Director Christopher Wray even personally recommended internal discipline for Patel. This recommendation stems from Patel’s behavior while the House was investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election. This seemingly minor recommendation uncovers deep, unresolved fissures within the FBI. The agency is in a deep credibility and trust hole, one made deeper with every high-profile politically sensitive investigation.
“The fact that Auten was not fired from the FBI and prosecuted for his part in the Russia Gate conspiracy is a national embarrassment.” – Kash Patel
Inclusion of Auten on Patel’s list raises new issues about discrimination by federal agencies. This chilling development adds intensity to an already-fraught debate. Our critics contend that these public lists erode public confidence in the integrity of our institutions. Advocates argue that they serve to shed light on alleged misconduct, a long-overdue transparency.
Patel’s book and her follow-up public statements have re-ignited a national conversation about the role of federal agencies in partisan political matters. Controversies surrounding the FBI continue to evolve. Patel’s claims bring to the fore a discussion about the legislative actions and accountability of the employees of these institutions.