FBI Director Kash Patel Denies Perjury Amid Democrat Accusations in Budget Hearing

FBI Director Kash Patel faced aggressive questioning from Democratic Rep. Madeleine Dean during a House Appropriations Committee hearing on the FBI's 2026 budget. Dean, referencing her role as a Trump impeachment manager, accused Patel of weaponizing the FBI against political opponents and questioned his honesty, asking if concerns should focus on his memory or veracity. Patel denied these accusations, challenging Dean to provide evidence of any wrongdoing and accusing her of using the exchange for political fundraising. The confrontation also touched on Patel's denial of claims that his book, "Government Gangsters," contained an enemies list, with Patel insisting it called out constitutional violations rather than political enemies. Patel, who was nominated by Trump and confirmed by a narrow Senate vote, also addressed accusations about his association with controversial podcaster Stew Peters, denying familiarity despite records showing multiple appearances. The exchange highlighted broader tensions over the FBI's role and politicization under Patel's leadership.