By Steve Neavling
Since taking over as FBI director in February, Kash Patel has become a high-profile presence — attending sporting events, posting on social media, and reshaping the bureau’s leadership and structure, The New York Times reports.
Patel, 44, traveled on Air Force One to a UFC event in Miami last weekend and appeared at two recent NHL games, including one where he watched Alex Ovechkin tie Wayne Gretzky’s scoring record from a luxury suite. He’s also frequently appeared alongside President Trump and posted about the FBI’s early “victories” under his leadership, including a spike in recruitment applications.
While previous directors avoided the limelight, Patel has leaned into it, publishing recruitment videos and promoting his agenda online. He’s suspended analysts linked to the Russia investigation, elevated new allies, and faced internal criticism for a flashy leadership style. His deputy, Dan Bongino, defended the pace of reforms, saying, “You will absolutely see results.”
Patel’s personal life has also attracted attention. The bachelor, who lives in Las Vegas, has been dating country singer Alexis Wilkins, and FBI jets have made several trips to Nashville. The agency says ethical guidelines are followed and declined to comment further for security reasons.
