FBI Director Kash Patel clashed with Democratic senators during a September 16 hearing. Senator Dick Durbin accused Patel of causing "incalculable damage" to the FBI and endangering national and public safety by dismissing agents involved in past criminal cases against President Donald Trump.

Senator Cory Booker argued these actions made the US "weaker and less safe," predicting Patel's tenure would be short-lived. "Even if you are carrying out Donald Trump’s wishes instead of upholding the Constitution, Trump has shown he isn't loyal to people like you and will abandon you," Booker said.

When Senator Adam Schiff questioned whether any FBI agents were fired for political retribution, Patel called Schiff "the biggest fraud ever to sit in the US Senate" and a "political clown."

"I don't have an enemies list," Patel stated. "Our personnel decisions are based on competence, qualifications, and the ability to fulfill constitutional duties. If they don't meet those standards, they are no longer employed."

FBI Director Kash Patel at a US Senate hearing on 16/9. Photo: AFP

FBI Director Kash Patel at a US Senate hearing on 16/9. Photo: AFP

Democratic and Republican senators also questioned Patel about the case of Jeffrey Epstein, a focal point of political controversy during the Trump administration.

Patel said the files contained no information suggesting Epstein procured young women for others. "There is no credible information, none whatsoever," he said.

Patel has faced criticism from both the left and the right since Trump appointed him to lead the FBI.

Some of Trump's most ardent supporters have followed the Epstein case for years. They believe a "deep state" elite protected those close to the financier within the Democratic Party and Hollywood.

Patel angered Trump loyalists in July by releasing a memo effectively ending the Epstein investigation.

Fox News reported a particularly strained relationship between Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, despite Patel retaining White House support.

Patel also faced criticism after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university. The FBI initially announced an arrest within hours of the shooting but later admitted to apprehending the wrong person. The actual suspect was captured after a 33-hour manhunt.

Pham Giang (AFP)