UPDATE: FBI Director Kash Patel has fired a top official following backlash over his use of a government jet to attend a wrestling event in Pennsylvania where his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, performed. This decision comes as the nation grapples with a government shutdown, raising questions about governmental priorities and accountability.
On Saturday, Patel dismissed Steven Palmer, a veteran of the FBI with 27 years of service, after flight logs revealed Patel’s controversial trip to the Real American Freestyle wrestling event. Flight data published by Flightaware confirmed he flew on a government plane to see Wilkins sing the national anthem.
Patel responded to critics on his personal X account, stating, “I’ve always said — criticize me all you want. But going after the people doing great work, my personal life, or those around me is a total disgrace.” His remarks follow intense scrutiny and accusations of hypocrisy, particularly after he previously criticized former FBI Director Christopher Wray for similar jet usage.
The dismissal of Palmer marks the third head of the Critical Incident Response Group (CIRG) to be fired since Patel took office in February. This swift action underscores the growing tensions within the FBI as Patel faces mounting criticism from both the media and social networks.
Former FBI agent and conservative commentator John Nantz suggested that Patel should have exercised more discretion in publicizing his trip during a government shutdown, stating, “I think he should have been a little more circumspect about making this such a public trip.”
In a further twist, whistleblower and right-wing commentator Kyle Seraphin has fueled the fire on social media, labeling Patel’s actions as “hypocritical.” Seraphin, who has been a vocal critic of Patel, claimed an internal FBI investigation was launched to identify sources that revealed details about Patel’s jet-setting.
Patel has strongly defended Wilkins, labeling her as “a rock-solid conservative and a country music sensation.” He criticized those who have attacked her, calling such actions “cowardly” and dangerous. Wilkins, who is embroiled in her own legal battle, has sued Seraphin for $5 million, accusing him of defamatory remarks on his podcast.
As the controversy unfolds, Patel’s position remains precarious. The public and media are closely watching how the FBI navigates this situation amidst ongoing governmental challenges. What comes next for Patel and the FBI remains uncertain, but the scrutiny is unlikely to subside any time soon.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
