The White House has strongly denied an MS NOW report that suggests President Donald Trump is considering the removal of FBI Director Kash Patel. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt categorically denied the allegations, calling the story ‘Fake News’ and stating it is completely made up. Leavitt shared a photo of Trump and Patel in the Oval Office, claiming the president laughed off the report and dismissed it as false.
MS NOW, which is the rebranded name for progressive cable network MSNBC, published the report citing three unnamed sources, claiming Trump was ‘considering removing Kash Patel as FBI director in the coming months.’ The report highlighted Patel’s scrutiny over his use of government resources, including his girlfriend’s security detail and a government jet, as well as his conflicts with Trump loyalists.
Leavitt responded on social media, stating that the story is entirely fabricated. She noted that when the report was published, Trump was in the Oval Office meeting with his law enforcement team, including Patel. Leavitt’s denial was supported by a statement from a White House spokesperson, who emphasized Patel’s critical role in the administration.
Despite the White House’s vehement denial, MS NOW correspondent Ken Dilanian maintained that the report accurately reflects growing concerns within the administration. Dilanian, who is part of the network now known as MS NOW, stated that the report may have enhanced Patel’s job security. He also noted that FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey, a potential replacement for Patel, would require a 90-day period under federal law before being nominated for the position.
The White House’s swift and emphatic response underscores the sensitivity of the issue. The allegations, while denied by the administration, have sparked a significant debate over the balance of power within the executive branch and the potential for political influence over law enforcement agencies. As the situation unfolds, the implications for both the FBI and the Trump administration remain a focal point of ongoing discussions.