Hot mic chaos leaves Kash Patel interview on Fox News in turmoil

FBI Director Kash Patel appeared on Fox News Monday to tout the Trump administration’s arrest of Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro, but his appearance was riddled with studio mishaps that included an individual shouting over Patel and an abrupt cut that left one Fox News host in limbo.

Appearing on Fox News’ “Fox & Friends,” Patel was interrupted before he uttered his first word by a voice that sounded as if it was being broadcast through radio chatter. The lighting on Patel's face could also be seen changing dramatically.

“Guys, you cannot be adjusting his light!” the unknown individual could be heard saying.

Patel, whose agency coordinated with the U.S. military in carrying out its attack on Venezuela and seizure of its president, ignored the apparent radio chatter and spoke to the Trump administration’s operation, even as the voice continued to be heard in the background.

Before Patel’s departure, Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade attempted to ask the FBI director a question about Dan Bongino, who officially stepped down from his position as FBI deputy director on Sunday, leaving his supporters hungry for him to share insider information on “corruption” within the Trump administration.

“And a salute to Dan Bongino, right?” Kilmeade asked. “Did a great job?”

Patel’s feed to the studio was cut just before Kilmeade could get out his question, leaving him stonefaced for a brief moment.

Patel’s time as head of the FBI has been fraught with controversy, largely over what critics have characterized as his incompetence in bungling several investigations, including the investigation into the killing of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk.