Staff Reports
Senator Susan Collins of Maine has decided that Kash Patel is not cut out for the role of FBI Director, a move that could throw a spanner in the works of President Trump’s nomination plans. In a recent statement, Collins expressed her reservations, claiming Patel’s qualifications and background don’t quite make the cut for this highly politicized position.
Collins pointed out that Patel’s nomination appears against a backdrop that includes recent turmoil at the Department of Justice. Several seasoned federal prosecutors have exited the DOJ, allegedly due to pressures to engage in questionable ethical practices. Apparently, the idea of appointing a known ally of Trump to lead an organization often perceived as a political playground raises some eyebrows, even for Republicans.
Additionally, Collins highlighted that the FBI has pinged thousands of its own employees with a questionnaire probing their involvement in certain investigations. There seems to be a lingering fear that these inquiries might lead to some very unsavory consequences for agents, including special agents who have devoted their lives to safeguarding America and her liberties. To anybody with sense, the notion that a president could push to purge the ranks of dedicated public servants is a red flag worthy of concern.
Maintaining a delicate balance at the FBI is essential, Collins indicated, while attempting to promote accountability. With allegations swirling around many aspects of the Bureau’s recent operations, the last thing the nation needs is a political appointee who may not have the interests of its agents at heart. Collins believes that it’s imperative to ensure dedicated employees are shielded from retaliation while upholding their duties, hence her reluctance to support Patel.
GOP Senator Comes Out AGAINST Kash Patel's FBI Director Confirmationhttps://t.co/VGmEdZIPB2
— Proud Elephant 🇺🇸🦅 (@ProudElephantUS) February 20, 2025
Despite Collins’ opposition, Patel’s nomination has been gaining momentum in the Senate. His political ties and history of calling out FBI misconduct won him supporters among Trump’s base. Though some Democratic senators have grilled him during hearings, Patel’s nomination passed the committee on a narrow party-line vote. The final vote is fast approaching, and while Collins may throw in her two cents, Patel looks to be sailing toward confirmation, proving that not all senators can maintain party loyalty in a crunch.
As Collins continues to stake out her territory by opposing Trump’s appointments, she joins the ranks of her fellow Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, both of whom fancy themselves as the Senate’s moral compass—even when it puts them at odds with the party. But while Collins may wear her “concerned senator” badge with pride, Patel is still expected to lead the FBI come Thursday afternoon, possibly redefining who’s actually calling the shots in a department many believe needs a swift and steady hand at the helm.
