Graham grills FBI nominee Patel over ‘disgusting’ and ‘corrupt’ Crossfire Hurricane probe

President Donald Trump’s FBI director nominee Kash Patel faced tough questioning on Thursday regarding the FBI’s investigation into alleged Trump-Russia connections following the 2016 election, known as “Crossfire Hurricane.” This investigation has been a contentious issue, with Republicans criticizing it as politically motivated and a waste of FBI resources.

Senator Lindsey Graham used much of his time during Patel’s confirmation hearing to question him about his views on the investigation. Patel, who was selected by then-House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes to join the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence in 2017 to investigate the origins of the Trump-Russia probe, has been a vocal critic of the FBI’s handling of the investigation.

Graham asked Patel if he believed that the individuals leading the Crossfire Hurricane investigation were biased against President Trump. Patel responded affirmatively, stating that he believed the investigation was one of the most disgraceful episodes in FBI history, led by corrupt individuals who were determined to undermine Trump.

Graham continued to criticize the FBI for what he sees as a politically motivated investigation, accusing them of ignoring evidence, fabricating evidence, and lying to target Trump. He emphasized the importance of Patel’s role in rectifying the alleged misconduct within the FBI.

Patel, a close ally of President Trump who previously served in the first Trump administration as a deputy assistant and senior director for counterterrorism, has faced criticism from Democrats for his past comments about prosecuting journalists and career officials he considers part of the “deep state.” He has attempted to clarify these remarks in light of his nomination.

Despite the controversy surrounding his nomination, Patel’s confirmation hearing is ongoing, with both supporters and critics closely watching the proceedings. His background in counterterrorism and his alignment with President Trump’s views make him a polarizing figure in the ongoing debate over the FBI’s handling of the Trump-Russia investigation.

Breanne Deppisch, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, is covering the confirmation process and will continue to provide updates on Patel’s nomination and the broader implications for the FBI and the Trump administration.