'He's a Strong, Tough Guy': Donald Trump Tells Why He Loves New FBI Chief Kash Patel

Washington: US President Donald Trump called Kash Patel a ‘strong and tough guy’ and said FBI agents respect him, which is one of the reasons he admires Patel.  

"One of the reasons I love Kash (Patel) and wanted to put him in is because of the respect the agents had for him. He will go down as the best ever at that position," Trump told the media.  

Patel has now assumed charge as the 9th FBI Director, becoming the first Indian-origin official to hold the position. His confirmation came after a narrow 51-49 vote in the US Senate, with all Senate Democrats opposing his appointment. Trump, who signed the executive order appointing Patel on Thursday, called the process ‘very easy’ due to Patel’s widespread respect within the agency.  

He said, “Turned out he was very easy to get approved. He is a tough and strong guy. He has his opinions”.

Trump also credited Republican politician Trey Gowdy for reinforcing his decision, saying Gowdy’s ‘incredible statement’ about Patel left no doubt in his mind. “Trey Gowdy came out with an incredible statement and said that Kash is an incredible person and people don't realise it. When he said that, there was no doubt left. It was a big statement made by someone who is respected and is on the moderate side,” he further added. 

Who is Kash Patel? 

New York-born Kash Patel, 44, has created history by becoming the first Indian-American to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States' premier law enforcement agency. Patel, who belongs to the Patidar community, took charge after a narrow Senate confirmation, marking a significant milestone for the Indian diaspora in the US.  

Patel’s family moved to the US in 1980 after living in Canada. A trained lawyer, he completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond before earning his law degree in New York. He also holds a Certificate in International Law from University College London.  

Before his appointment as FBI Director, Patel served as the Chief of Staff to Acting Secretary of Defence Christopher Miller. According to the US Department of Defence, he played a crucial role in advising the Secretary and managing key operations.  

Beyond his professional career, Patel is a passionate ice hockey fan and has been playing the sport since childhood.