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Indian-American Kash Patel has officially taken over as the 9th director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, known for his strong stance on national security, was sworn in on the Hindu sacred text, the Bhagavad Gita, at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.
Sworn in by US Attorney General
Patel’s swearing-in ceremony was conducted by US Attorney General Pam Bondi, following his confirmation by the US Senate. His family members and girlfriend were present during the event. Patel succeeds Christopher Wray in this high-profile role.
Not the First to Take Oath on the Gita
While Patel’s oath on the Bhagavad Gita made headlines, he is not the first Indian-American to do so. Previously, Congressman Suhash Subrahmanyam also took his oath on the Gita, showcasing the increasing influence of Indian-origin leaders in American politics.
‘Living the American Dream’
In his speech, Patel called the opportunity to lead the FBI the “greatest honor” of his life. He emphasized that his journey as a first-generation Indian in America is proof that the American dream is still alive.
“Anyone who thinks the American dream is dead, look right here. You are talking to a first-generation Indian who is about to lead the law enforcement agency of the greatest nation on earth,” Patel said.
#WATCH | Washington | Kash Patel takes oath on the Bhagavad Gita, as the 9th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2025
Source: US Network Pool via Reuters pic.twitter.com/c5Jr0ul1Jm
Trump’s Support for Patel
Former US President Donald Trump expressed strong support for Patel, calling him one of the best choices for the position.
“I think he'll go down as the best ever at that position. Agents love this guy,” Trump stated.
Trump also mentioned that Patel’s confirmation process was smooth, with strong backing from well-known figures like Trey Gowdy.
Concerns from Democrats
Not everyone welcomed Patel’s appointment with open arms. Some Democrats raised concerns that he might use his position to serve Trump’s interests. They pointed to past comments where Patel had mentioned targeting anti-Trump figures in the government and media.
At his confirmation hearing, Patel clarified that he would follow the Constitution and not seek retribution. He also dismissed certain media reports about him as “fake, malicious, slanderous, and defamatory.”
Planned Changes at the FBI
Patel has already expressed his desire to bring significant changes to the FBI. His key priorities include:
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Reducing the FBI’s footprint in Washington
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Refocusing on traditional crime-fighting efforts
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Shifting away from excessive intelligence-gathering
Strengthening National Security
During his oath ceremony, Patel emphasized that national security would remain a top priority. He issued a strong statement against those who threaten the country’s safety.
“Anyone that wishes to do harm to our way of life and our citizens, here and abroad, will face the full wrath of the DOJ and FBI. If you seek to hide in any corner of this country or planet, we will find you and we will decide your end-state.”
A New Era for the FBI
Patel, a former Justice Department counterterrorism prosecutor, was nominated for the position in November. He has now taken over the role with a 10-year term, a measure designed to keep the FBI director independent from political influences. However, history has shown that presidents can remove FBI directors before their term ends. Trump had previously fired James Comey and later replaced Christopher Wray after more than seven years in office.
Conclusion
Kash Patel’s appointment as the FBI director marks a significant moment in American law enforcement history. His leadership style, strong statements on security, and planned reforms have already sparked debates. As he takes charge, the country will closely watch how he navigates challenges and implements changes at the FBI.
🇺🇸 @FBIDirectorKash has officially been sworn in as the Director of the FBI by @AGPamBondi.
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 21, 2025
It’s time we restore integrity and justice at the FBI. MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN! pic.twitter.com/XCyo6HzThf
