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Date: May 28, 2025
Source: Special Report with Bret Baier – FOX News
Subject: FBI Director Kash Patel: Interview from Quantico
QUANTICO, VA – In a wide-ranging interview from the FBI Academy, newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel sat down with Bret Baier to discuss his reform agenda, national security concerns, and high-profile investigations. The interview aired during Special Report on May 28, 2025. Below are the key takeaways:
🔹 FBI Reform and Recruitment
Applications Surge: The bureau is receiving 5,700 applications per month, signaling renewed public interest.
Facility Upgrades: Patel emphasized the need to modernize FBI Academy facilities and update training standards.
🔹 Operation Raptor – Fentanyl Interdiction
A global initiative across four continents is targeting fentanyl and precursor chemicals.
The FBI is coordinating with Treasury and State to sanction entities and negotiate diplomatically, particularly with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Patel notes China is now rerouting chemicals away from Mexico due to improved border enforcement.
🔹 Criticism of Former Leadership
Patel condemned former FBI leadership for politicizing the agency, failing in modernization, and blocking internal initiatives.
He vowed to restore strategic planning and transparency within the bureau.
🔹 Transparency on High-Profile Investigations
Patel confirmed the release of previously hidden documents to Congress and pledged full constitutional oversight.
He criticized the prior slow-walked acknowledgment of 26 confidential human sources present during the January 6 Capitol incident.
🔹 National Guard on January 6
Patel asserted the Trump administration authorized the National Guard, but the deployment was rejected by Mayor Bowser and Speaker Pelosi.
He blamed millions in investigation costs on political posturing and media-driven narratives.
🔹 James Comey Controversy
Patel accused former Director Comey of triggering copycat threats by posting the code “8647” on social media—interpreted by some as a reference to political violence.
These threats forced FBI agents to divert resources away from drug and child exploitation cases.
🔹 Trump Assassination Attempt – Butler, PA
Patel confirmed that more details will be released, stating: “You’re going to know everything we know.”
He denied speculation of an inside job, acknowledging conspiracy rumors but reaffirming commitment to truth.
🔹 Pipe Bomber and Other Threats
He revealed new leads are emerging on the January 6 pipe bomber and noted his deputy will discuss them in an upcoming interview.
Investigations into threats against public officials, including assassination attempts, are ongoing.
🔹 FBI Headquarters to Stay in D.C.
Patel announced the FBI will remain in Washington D.C., relocating next to the Department of Justice.
He rejected earlier plans to move the HQ to Maryland or Virginia, citing the importance of daily DOJ access.
🔹 National Security Threats – CCP
Patel cited thousands of military-aged Chinese nationals entering the U.S. as a top national security concern.
Warned of the long-term risk to domestic security and recruitment.
🔹 Personal Leadership and Vision
Patel, a first-generation Indian-American, emphasized his commitment to diversity, accountability, and mission integrity.
He vowed to support whistleblowers and remove personnel who violate their oath.
This interview marks a shift in tone and direction for the FBI under Patel’s leadership. His emphasis on accountability, national security, and law enforcement modernization sets the stage for internal restructuring and external scrutiny.
For full coverage, watch the archived video here:
