Klobuchar Downplays Urgency For FBI Nominee Despite Terror Threats

Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) said Sunday that President-elect Donald Trump’s FBI nominee, Kash Patel, does not need to be confirmed quickly, even as the nation reels from recent terror attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas. Klobuchar stated that the FBI remains “very functional” and can handle the current situation without immediate changes in leadership.

“The FBI investigated New Orleans, investigated Las Vegas, and told the public exactly what was going on,” Klobuchar said during an interview on CNN’s State of the Union. She emphasized the Senate’s responsibility to thoroughly vet nominees for security positions, saying, “We have a duty to advise and consent.”

Klobuchar also voiced concerns about potential conflicts of interest among Trump’s nominees, including Patel. “We must know what their background is. We must see their financial disclosure forms. The president elect has put in a number of billionaires that could have all kinds of conflicts into these jobs,” she said.

Critics argue that Klobuchar’s approach could delay the FBI from gaining leadership aligned with the incoming administration’s policies, creating uncertainty in a critical agency during heightened national security concerns. Trump allies contend that confirming Patel quickly would bolster the FBI’s ability to address ongoing threats.

Some suggest Klobuchar’s reluctance may reflect fears of what a new FBI director, known for exposing misconduct in government, could uncover. Patel played a key role in revealing flaws in the FBI’s handling of the Russia investigation, earning him a reputation as a disruptor.

The recent terror attacks have amplified calls for strong leadership at the FBI, with Republicans pushing for Patel’s confirmation to happen without unnecessary delays.