Kash Patel, the incoming Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), asserted on Friday that the American Dream is alive and well, as he gets set to lead one of the nation's most influential law enforcement organizations.
"I am living the American dream," Patel said after taking the oath of office with his sister, Nisha Patel, his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, and other close relatives present.
"For anyone that thinks the American Dream is no more, take a look here. You're staring at a first-generation Indian child who will soon be at the helm of the law enforcement community in the best country in God's green earth," he said.
Historically, 44-year-old Kashyap Pramod Vinod Patel becomes the FBI's ninth Director and the first person of Indian and Asian background to serve as Director.
Patel’s Journey to Leadership
Born to Indian parents from Gujarat, Patel's family migrated to the U.S. through Canada after first fleeing Uganda to avoid ethnic persecution. He grew up in New York, where he earned a law degree and started his career as a public defender. His ascent in public service gained momentum during Donald Trump's first term, when he served in important roles, including Chief of Staff at the Pentagon and Deputy Director of National Intelligence.
Just before Patel took up his new position, former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed him, saying that Patel "is going to go down as maybe the best ever" FBI Director.
A Controversial Appointment
Patel's nomination evoked contentious debate since his outspoken personality has frequently invited caustic responses from both sides of the political divide. His confirmation in the U.S. Senate was a nail-biter, going through by a margin of 51-49. Although most Republicans supported his appointment, two GOP Senators agreed with the Democrats to oppose it.
Recognizing the difficulties of confirming Patel, Trump conceded, "I knew it wouldn't be easy—he's tough, he's strong, and he has his own opinions."
Patel's Plan for the FBI
Defining his agenda, Patel emphasized the pressing need to fight violent crime, drug overdose deaths, and national security risks.
"Last year alone, 100,000 were raped; 100,000 were killed by fentanyl overdoses attributed to China's CCP; 17,000 homicides were reported. Violent crime is getting out of hand. We cannot make this the new normal in the United States of America," he stated.
Discussing security threats, Patel issued a stern warning to enemies:
"Anybody who seeks to harm our country or its people—either at home or abroad—will face the wrath of the Department of Justice and the FBI. If you hide, we will initiate the world's largest manhunt, find you, and decide your destiny—on our schedule, not yours."
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