The Biden administration’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, recently avoided comments on concerns surrounding Kash Patel’s nomination for FBI director. Patel has previously identified Sullivan as part of the “deep state” in his published book, “Government Gangsters.”
During an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Sullivan was asked by reporter Kasie Hunt if he was worried about Patel having extensive powers in federal investigations, especially considering the personal implications it might have for him. Sullivan chose to focus on his responsibilities in his remaining days in office rather than engage with the question about Patel. He stated, “I wake up every day to try to defend this country and protect the national interest. I got 50 days left. I’m going to stay totally focused on every single one of those days to make sure that we have a smooth handoff to the next team.”
Patel’s book, which received praise from former President Trump, outlines what he describes as the abuse of power within the FBI, warning that this undermines the rule of law and the foundations of democracy. In his book, Patel listed various individuals he categorized as part of the “deep state,” including Sullivan and other Biden officials like Attorney General Merrick Garland and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Trump’s endorsement of Patel signals a push for significant change within the FBI. Sullivan commented on the outgoing FBI director, Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump and is not expected to be replaced easily. He said the guiding principle is that the FBI director should remain outside political influences, which is why they are appointed for terms that exceed one presidential cycle.
In order for Patel to step into the role of FBI director, Wray would need to resign or be dismissed, and Patel would also require Senate confirmation. The potential for a shift in leadership at the FBI has sparked discussions about accountability and the necessity of organizational reform within federal investigative agencies.
