Democratic lawmakers have initiated an investigation into FBI Director Kash Patel's alleged use of taxpayer money for personal travel, luxury vehicles, and leisure activities.
Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) confirmed Thursday that they have launched an inquiry into Patel's use of public resources. Their investigation was prompted in part by a May 5 letter sent to Patel by Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).
In his letter, Grassley reportedly raised "serious concerns" regarding the FBI director's use of government aircraft, the purchase of luxury BMW vehicles, and whether Patel has reimbursed taxpayers for personal travel. Excerpts from Grassley's letter, obtained by MS Now, indicate he questioned Patel about reimbursements for personal travel on FBI aircraft and the decision to purchase BMWs instead of Chevrolet Suburbans.
Durbin and Raskin, in a July 8 letter to Patel, acknowledged Grassley's concerns, stating they "mirror those raised repeatedly by House and Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats." They referenced a past incident where Patel allegedly participated in a "VIP snorkel" excursion in Hawaii during a visit to Pearl Harbor, describing it as a leisure activity.
The lawmakers also cited other alleged instances of Patel demanding perks on official trips, including a taxpayer-funded helicopter tour during a trip to East Asia and other recreational activities like jet skiing. They further suggested that a new FBI attaché in Wellington, New Zealand, may have been established to justify a sightseeing trip Patel took there.
"The American people deserve an FBI Director focused on keeping us all safe rather than jet-setting to check off personal bucket list items," Raskin and Durbin wrote.
In response to the scrutiny, the FBI on Thursday shared an infographic on X detailing Patel's "personal travel and cost savings," asserting that he has taken fewer trips compared to former FBI Directors Christopher Wray and James Comey. The post stated, "This FBI is more efficient and effective in every way."
Patel has been the subject of several recent reports, including an April article by The Atlantic detailing allegations of "excessive drinking and unexplained absences." He responded to that report by filing a $250 million defamation lawsuit against the outlet. Additionally, reports surfaced in February concerning Patel arranging for his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, to be escorted by SWAT team members during her travels. Following a New York Times report on this matter, the FBI reportedly opened an investigation into the Times reporter, Elizabeth Williamson.