Former Obama administration official Juliette Kayyem expressed sharp disapproval of President-elect Donald Trump's choice of Kash Patel for FBI Director during an appearance on CNN's "Newsroom" on Sunday.
Trump's selection of Patel, announced via Truth Social on Saturday, has ignited a firestorm of debate. The President-elect aims to replace current FBI Director Christopher Wray, whom he appointed during his first term. Media outlets have characterized Patel as a highly contentious pick, highlighting his past criticisms of the "deep state."
Concerns about the potential politicization of the FBI under Patel's leadership have been voiced by commentators, with some suggesting he might act as a "Trump enforcer" seeking to "dismantle" the agency.
Kayyem contended that Patel's sole purpose in the role would be to pursue Trump's political adversaries.
Longtime Trump ally Kash Patel. (Getty Images)
"Patel's agenda appears to be solely focused on retribution. He doesn't seem to have a vision for law enforcement, crime reduction, or tackling financial crimes. His closeness to Trump and his appointment seem driven by one objective: to spearhead a 'revenge tour' during a potential second term. His role isn't about what anyone thinks; it's about fulfilling this specific purpose," Kayyem stated.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) accused Trump of harboring resentment towards Wray for exhibiting excessive "independence" and "objectivity." Raskin refuted claims of politicization by the current administration.
"I haven't seen any evidence of the FBI or Department of Justice being weaponized against a political party. This Department of Justice has prosecuted both a Democratic senator and a Democratic congressman. Some believe investigations should only target one side, and if that's not the case, it's deemed politicized. This is what they mean by 'politicization' and the 'deep state.' No one has ever clearly defined the 'deep state;' it seems to simply refer to anyone who doesn't comply with Trump's wishes," Raskin stated on CNN's "State of the Union."
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan also denied any politicization within the FBI and criticized Trump's intention to replace Wray prematurely.
Juliette Kayyem expressed concerns over Patel's nomination. (CNN screenshot)
"Chris Wray, the current FBI director, was appointed by Donald Trump. Joe Biden didn't dismiss him. He allowed Wray to fulfill his responsibilities and complete his term. That's our approach. We want to ensure the FBI's independence from political influence," Sullivan told Kristen Welker on NBC's "Meet the Press."
Republicans offered a more favorable view of Patel's nomination.
"Donald Trump campaigned on reforming the FBI and Department of Justice, so this shouldn't be a surprise. Trump has chosen Kash Patel, someone with experience as chief of staff at the Department of Defense, deputy director of the NSI, and a senior staffer on the House Intelligence Committee. He also served as a federal prosecutor under the Obama administration. He clearly has the necessary qualifications," Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) said on "State of the Union."
He added, "Our justice system needs depoliticization. Unfortunately, under the Biden administration, it has become weaponized, and that's wrong."
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) praised Patel as a good choice to "address partisan corruption within the FBI."
"Kash Patel is a strong nominee. All of President Trump's cabinet nominees are strong, and I believe they will be confirmed by the Senate. Patel has a serious, professional background," Cruz commented.
He continued, "The outrage from certain individuals stems from their dismay at the prospect of genuine reform within the FBI, aimed at removing entrenched partisan actors."
Patel's nomination generated mixed reactions. (Getty Images)
Andrew McCabe, who briefly served as acting FBI director under Trump in 2017, criticized Patel's nomination as "a plan to disrupt, dismantle, and distract the FBI."
"This is a detrimental development for the FBI and the nation, which relies on a highly functional, professional, and independent Bureau. Patel's profound lack of qualifications is undeniable," McCabe stated on CNN.
Wray's 10-year term is set to expire in 2027. He would need to resign or be dismissed for Patel to assume the position. The FBI has given no indication that Wray intends to resign.
"The men and women of the FBI remain dedicated to protecting Americans from an increasing array of threats. Director Wray's focus remains on the FBI's personnel, our partners, and the people we serve," the FBI stated.
