By Charles Switzer
2:52pm PST, Jan 31, 2025
Patel Vows to Prioritize Child Trafficking Cases
During his Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing, Kash Patel, nominated by President Donald Trump for FBI Director, emphasized his commitment to combating child trafficking.
In response to Senator Marsha Blackburn's (R-TN) concerns about obtaining Jeffrey Epstein's flight logs, Patel stated, "Child s– trafficking has no place in the United States of America, and I will do everything if confirmed as FBI director to make sure the American public knows the full weight of what happened in the past."
Here are four other revelations from Patel's confirmation hearing.
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Commitment to Working With Congress on Epstein Case
Senator Blackburn expressed frustration over previous obstacles in accessing Epstein's flight records, noting, "I have worked on this for years, trying to get those records of who flew on Epstein's plane."
Patel assured her of his cooperation, stating, "Absolutely, senator."
This exchange highlights a potential shift in the FBI's approach to the Epstein investigation under Patel's prospective leadership, which has many in the Trump camp "on edge" about possible past connections between the sitting president and the deceased pedophile emerging.
Clash Over Epstein Flight Logs in Senate Hearing
The hearing also featured a dispute between Senators Blackburn and Dick Durbin (D-IL) regarding access to Epstein's flight logs.
Blackburn accused Durbin of blocking her requests, to which Durbin responded, "We have fought this issue for quite some time. I look forward to having an FBI that will work to help get these records and end this human and s– trafficking in this country."
Patel Defends Himself Against Democratic Attacks
Throughout the hearing, Patel faced intense questioning from Democratic senators who suggested he was nominated due to his loyalty to President Trump.
Patel refuted these claims, asserting, "There will be no politicization at the FBI. There will be no retributive actions taken by any FBI should I be confirmed as the FBI director."
He emphasized his commitment to maintaining the bureau's independence and integrity.
Patel Denies QAnon Ties, Addresses Racist Attacks
Addressing concerns about his alleged association with conspiracy theories, Patel stated, "I have never promoted QAnon."
He also shared personal experiences of racism, recounting being called a "detestable sand n—– who had no right being in this country."
Patel pointed out, "But that is nothing compared to what the men and women in law enforcement face every day."
These statements were met with mixed reactions on social media, with some users expressing support for Patel's resilience while others remained "skeptical of his denial regarding QAnon," in the words of one X commenter.
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