FBI Director Kash Patel has faced a number of embarrassing moments lately, including the most recent revelation that he reportedly went on a "VIP snorkel" of the Pearl Harbor memorial. This controversy is fueling swirling speculation about Patel's future in the Trump administration, an analyst reported on Thursday.
Patel has been on thin ice with Trump after reports surfaced of allegations of excessive drinking, a video showing him partying with the Olympic hockey team, and using government-funded jets on trips. MS NOW producer Steve Benen reported on Thursday on why the latest revelation has been so notable.
"Part of what makes the new allegations so striking is the fact that many of Patel’s troubles stem from leaks from FBI insiders," Benen wrote. "The director has struggled for months with critics within the bureau, but there’s every reason to believe the problem is getting worse."
"What’s more, it’s worth appreciating just how unsurprising the latest controversy is," Benen added.
It's unclear what could come next for Patel and his White House career. Politico had reported weeks ago that things "aren't looking great" for the FBI director and that he could be the next Trump administration official to leave.
"This dovetailed with related observations about just how little the White House has done to defend Patel, or even to say his name out loud, in the face of multiple controversies," Benen explained.
"The director started scrambling soon after to save his job, but between the latest reporting and the 'Saturday Night Live' sketches that lampooned Patel as a national joke, no one should be too surprised if the president starts looking for some faraway land that needs a new ambassador. Watch this space," Benen added.
