Editorials or opinion pieces from major media outlets

Trump Nominates Kash Patel for FBI Director, Raising Concerns Over His 'Lawfare' History and Six Filed Cases

Dec 23, 2024, 01:23 PM

Donald Trump has nominated Kash Patel as his choice for FBI director, a decision that has raised concerns among critics due to Patel's history of legal actions against perceived adversaries. Patel, who has filed six cases since 2019, including defamation claims seeking $25 million from Politico, $44 million from the New York Times, and $50 million from CNN, as well as suits against federal agencies and former officials, is seen by some as potentially using the FBI's resources for retribution. Most of Patel's legal cases have been dismissed or withdrawn, but his past statements about targeting the media and rooting out the 'deep state' are under scrutiny as the Senate considers his confirmation. Patel's nomination comes as outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray plans to resign before Trump's inauguration, not completing his full term. Critics have described Patel's legal actions as 'lawfare,' a term referring to using the legal system to damage or intimidate adversaries.