Kash Patel Demands Hearing End Amid Heated Exchange Over Personal Life
FBI Director clashed with Democrats over questioning on his girlfriend, alleged drinking habits, and use of agency resources.
FBI Director Kash Patel called for an end to a contentious Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing Tuesday, after several hours of combative exchanges with Democratic senators who questioned his personal life and conduct.
Patel accused the committee's Democrats, including Senator Adam Schiff, of using the hearing for political gain rather than genuine oversight, claiming they had "baselessly attacked" him and his loved ones. The hearing, which lasted nearly five hours, saw Patel face questions regarding his tenure as FBI director, reports of his alleged drinking habits, and the use of FBI resources, including reports of his girlfriend receiving a security detail from the FBI's SWAT team.
"It didn't happen. Total lie," Patel stated emphatically when Schiff pressed him on the reports of the SWAT team's involvement. When Schiff attempted to rephrase the question, Patel interrupted, "It's a total lie! I'm not going to answer it."
During the hearing, Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, a 26-year-old country singer, sat stone-faced several feet behind him. Patel met Wilkins in 2022 at a gathering in Nashville.
Schiff's persistent questioning led Patel to turn to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, urging him to conclude the proceedings. "Mr. Chairman, I've maintained decorum through this entire hearing," Patel said. "Democrats have called me a thug, a liar, [and] baselessly attacked my loved ones - continuing to jeopardize the safety of me and mine."
Patel added, "I would appreciate it if you concluded this hearing, because this guy - referring to Schiff - has no interest in oversight."
Grassley did not immediately grant Patel's request but attempted to restore order and remind participants of decorum rules. The hearing continued with further heated exchanges. Senator Cory Booker was among those who sharply criticized Patel, calling him a "lackey" and stating that Patel "wouldn't qualify even to be an FBI agent."
Patel has previously stated that he has "never been intoxicated on the job."