Durbin seeks inquiry into Patel's alleged FBI purge direction

Senator Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, has accused Kash Patel, President Trump's nominee for FBI director, of secretly directing firings within the bureau before his confirmation. In a letter to the Justice Department's inspector general, Durbin claimed to have received credible information indicating Patel was overseeing a 'purge' of FBI officials, potentially misleading the Senate during his confirmation hearing. He called for an immediate investigation, asserting that Patel's actions could constitute perjury and illegal employment practices. Durbin emphasized the severity of the allegations, noting that Patel, despite lacking an official role, was allegedly receiving information and issuing directives regarding FBI personnel changes. Republican Senator Chuck Grassley defended Patel, dismissing the allegations as hearsay and asserting that they do not reflect Patel's character. The Senate Judiciary Committee is set to vote on Patel's nomination, amidst rising concerns from Democratic lawmakers about his qualifications and intentions.