The U.S. Senate confirmed Kash Patel as the new FBI Director on Thursday in a 51-49 vote, despite strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers who attempted last-minute efforts to block his confirmation.
The confirmation marked a significant setback for Democrats, particularly Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA), who has been a vocal critic of Patel.
Patel, a former senior Trump administration official, has long advocated for overhauling the FBI and increasing transparency in federal investigations.
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In a final attempt to show resistance, a small group of Democratic lawmakers gathered outside the FBI headquarters for a protest against Patel’s confirmation.
However, the low turnout quickly became a point of discussion online.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, mocked the protest, posting on X, “Public outrage is high,” along with an image showing just five Democratic politicians at the event.
Wow, the public outrage is high https://t.co/EUpTEELxbP
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 20, 2025
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Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) was also seen in photos and videos from the demonstration, but even some Democratic senators who opposed Patel’s confirmation did not attend.
Schiff voiced his frustration, questioning Patel’s “trust,” “character,” and “integrity.”
Kash Patel can’t do the job of FBI Director. He’s patently unqualified.
Those who vote for his confirmation will be accountable for the destruction he does to the nation’s top law enforcement agency and to the rule of law. pic.twitter.com/qfqaMUBbNS
— Adam Schiff (@SenAdamSchiff) February 20, 2025
His comments were met with sharp criticism, given his own history of controversy regarding the Russia collusion investigation.
Elon Musk responded to Schiff’s remarks, calling him a “criminal.”
Adam Schiff is a criminal https://t.co/f2tbVUcsXg
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 20, 2025
While Schiff has not been formally charged or convicted of any crime, his past actions—including being censured by the House for misleading the public on Russia collusion—have led to ongoing scrutiny.
Notably, Schiff received a pardon from Joe Biden related to his role in the January 6 Committee, though he previously publicly downplayed the necessity of such a pardon.
Following Musk’s comment, Schiff responded with a criticism of President Donald Trump, but many users on X quickly reminded him of Biden’s pardon.
December, 2020: Have you ever heard of somebody getting a preemptive pardon who is an innocent person?
Adam Schiff: No.
Well done Adam, you actually said something true. Be thankful for that pardon. pic.twitter.com/lcZY1qQpLR
— MAZE (@mazemoore) February 20, 2025
Patel’s confirmation signals a significant shift in the FBI’s leadership.
His focus on cleaning up the agency has been a point of contention among Democrats, many of whom fear his push for greater transparency and reforms could lead to further investigations into past political actions.
While some critics frame Patel’s approach as politically motivated, supporters argue that his efforts are aimed at justice, not retribution.
Patel has previously advocated for full investigations into past abuses of power within the FBI, raising concerns among establishment figures in Washington.
Beyond Patel’s confirmation, the Trump administration is moving swiftly on a broad policy agenda.
Vice President JD Vance, speaking at CPAC, outlined several key priorities the administration is tackling with renewed energy.
With Patel now in charge of the FBI, political observers expect a major shift in how federal investigations are conducted.
As the administration continues to implement its policies, more high-profile changes could be on the horizon.
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