Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) downplayed concerns over President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for FBI director, Kash Patel, despite Patel’s controversial pledge to turn the FBI’s headquarters into a “museum of the deep state.”
Following a Monday meeting with Patel, Cornyn dismissed Patel’s previous comments as exaggeration. When asked about Patel’s plan to shut down the FBI’s Hoover Building, Cornyn responded, “Hyperbole.” Cornyn elaborated, saying, “We still don’t know what Director Wray’s plans are. But eventually, I assume that Mr. Patel will be confirmed as the next FBI director.”
Patel, a close Trump ally, outlined his vision for the FBI in a September interview with Shawn Ryan, where he described drastic changes to the agency. “I’d shut down the FBI Hoover Building on day one and reopen it the next day as a museum of the ‘deep state,’” Patel said. “Then, I’d take the 7,000 employees that work in that building and send them across America to chase down criminals. Go be cops. You’re cops — to be cops.”
The remarks, which align with Trump’s frequent criticisms of the FBI, have sparked alarm among critics who view Patel’s stance as undermining the bureau’s role and independence. Patel’s plans extend beyond restructuring the FBI; he has previously stated intentions to target journalists and federal officials.
Patel has vowed to prosecute what he calls “conspirators” within the federal government who “lied about American citizens” and “helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections.” These statements have amplified concerns that his leadership could politicize the agency.
Despite Patel’s contentious rhetoric, Cornyn’s comments suggest Republican confidence in Patel’s confirmation. The endorsement comes amid broader efforts by Trump and his allies to reshape federal institutions, particularly the FBI, which Trump has repeatedly accused of bias and corruption.
Patel’s nomination, if it proceeds, is likely to trigger fierce opposition from Democrats and watchdog groups, who view his proposals as an existential threat to the FBI’s independence.
For now, Cornyn’s remarks reflect a growing acceptance within Trump’s party of Patel’s vision, even as critics brace for a contentious confirmation process. As Patel’s pledge to transform the FBI gains attention, his nomination signals a clear break from the bureau’s traditional role and a shift toward Trump’s vision of federal law enforcement.