Kash Patel’s FBI Jet Use Sparks Controversy Amid Shutdown

UPDATE: Controversy erupts around FBI Director Kash Patel as new reports reveal his use of the bureau’s jet for personal trips, including visits to a luxurious hunting resort. Just announced by the Wall Street Journal, Patel’s travels have ignited frustrations among Trump administration officials during a critical government shutdown.

In recent days, Patel has faced backlash for his high-profile trips, which included a visit to San Angelo, Texas, where he stayed at the opulent Boondoggle Ranch, owned by Republican donor C.R. “Bubba” Saulsbury Jr.. The jet remained at the resort from October 1 until October 4, coinciding with the ongoing government shutdown, raising eyebrows among officials who had urged limited travel during this period.

Patel’s travel history includes a controversial trip to attend a wrestling event featuring his girlfriend, a country music singer, in State College, Pennsylvania, followed by a visit to her home in Nashville. The FBI director attracted criticism when former agent Kyle Seraphin labeled the taxpayer-funded travel as “pathetic,” especially amid budgetary constraints.

Officials within the Justice Department expressed their discontent to the White House, indicating that Patel’s travel is misaligned with President Trump’s directives to minimize unnecessary trips. Reports suggest that both the White House and senior DOJ officials have raised concerns over Patel’s jet-setting lifestyle, which has become a topic of gossip within the bureau.

Despite the criticism, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt defended Patel, asserting that Trump remains “very proud” of the FBI’s performance under his leadership. Meanwhile, Patel’s frequent use of the FBI jet has drawn ire even from Trump, who has privately shown irritation regarding his director’s actions.

As this story develops, the implications of Patel’s travel habits could have significant repercussions within the Trump administration. Observers are keenly watching how this controversy unfolds and whether it will impact Patel’s standing and the FBI’s operations.

Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking story as officials continue to respond to these revelations.