Kash Patel Faces Backlash Over Lavish FBI Jet Trips

UPDATE: New reports confirm that FBI Director Kash Patel is under intense scrutiny after revelations about his extravagant travel habits using the bureau’s jet. A Wall Street Journal report detailed Patel’s trips to a luxurious private hunting resort, stirring frustration among Trump administration officials and raising questions about the appropriateness of such travel during a government shutdown.

The FBI’s jet has reportedly made dozens of flights since Patel took office, with some trips drawing ire from both the Department of Justice and his colleagues at the FBI. Just last month, Patel faced backlash for using the FBI plane to attend a wrestling event in State College, Pennsylvania, where his girlfriend, a country music singer, performed. He then continued to her home in Nashville, Tennessee. Former FBI agent Kyle Seraphin publicly criticized this use of taxpayer-funded travel, calling it “pathetic,” particularly during a government shutdown.

A shocking new detail has emerged: Patel also visited the Boondoggle Ranch, a private hunting resort in San Angelo, Texas, owned by prominent Republican donor C.R. “Bubba” Saulsbury Jr. The plane remained at the ranch from October 29 to November 1, coinciding with the ongoing government shutdown.

Patel’s travel habits have not only frustrated higher-ups in the Justice Department but have also made waves at the White House. Officials reportedly complained to the White House about Patel’s travel, which they deemed excessive, particularly since cabinet members had been instructed months ago to limit unnecessary travel. The White House has been privy to details of Patel’s trips, including an August excursion to Scotland, which has become a topic of gossip among administration officials.

President Donald Trump himself has expressed private irritation regarding Patel’s conduct, even as he continues to publicly support him. In response to the Wall Street Journal report, Patel downplayed the criticisms, stating, “Thankfully, Americans can see through WSJ hot garbage—this FBI has never been stronger.”

Despite the controversy, the White House remains steadfast in its support for Patel. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt emphasized that Trump is “very proud of the work the FBI is doing under Director Patel’s leadership,” positioning him as a key member of Trump’s law-and-order team.

As this story develops, the implications for Patel’s position and the broader dynamics within the Trump administration remain to be seen. The public will be watching closely to see how these revelations affect the FBI’s reputation and the administration’s approach to leadership accountability.

Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding situation.