Jasmine Crockett Blasts Kosh Patel as “Least Qualified FBI Director in History”

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett delivered a blistering critique of FBI Director Kosh Patel during a recent congressional hearing, calling into question both his qualifications and his approach to national security. Her message was direct, unflinching, and aimed at highlighting the dangers communities face under his leadership.

Crockett began by setting the record straight: Patel is the first modern FBI director to assume the role without ever serving in the Bureau. “You are the only one that never even served with the FBI prior to joining,” she said. “Yet we are supposed to believe that you are the greatest thing since sliced bread.” She contrasted Patel’s inexperience with his predecessor, Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Donald Trump but rose through FBI ranks.

The congresswoman did not mince words about Patel’s early actions, alleging that even before his confirmation, he targeted career officials in preparation for political firings. Crockett framed this as a symptom of an agency under political influence rather than committed to impartial law enforcement.

Crockett’s critique went beyond credentials to question Patel’s priorities and competence. She cited his admission to the Senate that it would take 14 years to fully staff the FBI—an indication of systemic dysfunction under his leadership. She also highlighted missteps such as diverting FBI resources to unrelated enforcement roles and posting premature, inaccurate updates about arrests, which she described as showmanship rather than responsible leadership.

The congresswoman’s critique was deeply tied to real-world consequences. She underscored that threats against lawmakers—both Republican and Democrat—have risen sharply. She referenced multiple instances of death threats against members of Congress, including Republican colleagues who voted against Jim Jordan for Speaker. She also called out Patel’s inaction during a domestic terrorism incident targeting historically Black colleges and universities, pointing to the FBI’s failure to protect communities most at risk.

Crockett emphasized that the majority of threats come from right-wing extremism—a fact Patel has reportedly refused to fully acknowledge. “How can communities trust an FBI director who won’t confront the issues affecting the most? Who downplays real threats, shows no urgency, and seems more interested in performing for political allies than leading a national security agency?” she asked.

The congresswoman closed with a personal reflection on the importance of representation and credibility in public service. Drawing on her own experience as a public defender, she explained how her presence allowed clients to feel seen and understood—qualities she argues Patel lacks. “Leadership at the FBI should be about independence, experience, and public trust, not politics, showmanship, or loyalty to one man,” Crockett concluded.

Crockett’s testimony has sparked widespread attention, shining a light on the intersection of politics and law enforcement leadership. Her central message is clear: Americans deserve an FBI director who protects communities, enforces the law impartially, and leads with experience and integrity—not someone whose priorities are political optics or allegiance to the powerful.