FBI Director Kash Patel is under fire for celebrating with the U.S. men's hockey team at the Winter Olympics in Italy, while the FBI investigated a breach at Mar-a-Lago, reigniting criticism over his frequent personal travels and perceived hypocrisy given his past comments about his predecessor.
FBI Director Kash Patel's presence at the U.S. men’s hockey team’s gold medal celebration at the Winter Olympics in Italy has deepened questions about his personal travels and use of government resources. This incident occurred while the FBI was actively investigating an armed man shot and killed after breaching President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort. Critics, including Democratic Rep. Jason Crow, accused Patel of using taxpayer money for an 'Italian vacation,' though the White House defended his trip, stating he was also meeting with security partners. This controversy is not new for Patel, who has faced ongoing scrutiny for using the government Gulfstream G550 jet for trips, such as attending a pro wrestling event where his girlfriend performed, with no apparent law enforcement purpose. The situation is particularly contentious because Patel, as a podcaster, had previously lambasted his predecessor, Chris Wray, for similar use of the FBI plane, suggesting it be grounded due to cost. FBI spokesman Ben Williamson has defended Patel, stating that security protocols mandate his use of the bureau jet even for personal trips, that he reimburses the government for private travel, and that he significantly limits such trips while remaining on duty 24/7. Despite these defenses, the use of government resources for personal travel has historically been a sensitive issue for the FBI, leading to past disciplinary actions and even the firing of a former director. Patel asserts he complies with all established policies.
