FBI Cuts Ties With ADL, SPLC Amid Conservative Backlash Broadening Extremism Tracking Debate

The FBI has announced it is severing ties with two major civil rights organizations, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), following complaints from conservatives and allies of President Donald Trump that these groups have become partisan and unfairly malign conservative viewpoints. FBI Director Kash Patel criticized the SPLC for its "partisan smear machine" tactics and use of a "hate map" targeting alleged anti-government groups, and earlier stated the decision to cut ties with the ADL, a prominent Jewish advocacy group combating antisemitism. The move marks a significant shift in the FBI's longstanding partnerships that provided research, law enforcement training, and insight into hate crimes and domestic extremism. The ADL has faced criticism from both political left and right, with some accusing it of appeasing conservatives or aligning with left-wing causes, which some say undermines its credibility and effectiveness. Experts express concern that ending ties with the ADL could leave the Jewish community more vulnerable to threats. The SPLC and ADL have not directly responded to the FBI's statements but continue to defend their roles in tracking hate and extremism.