FBI Director Kash Patel Orders Polygraphs for Staff Amid Leak Probe

FBI Director Kash Patel has ordered polygraph examinations for more than two dozen current and former members of his security detail, IT staff, and other employees with access to his schedule and internal decisions, according to sources cited by MS NOW. The directive aims to identify individuals who may have disclosed information to journalists, following a series of critical media reports about Patel's performance and behavior in office.

The scrutiny includes agents on Patel's protective detail and personnel handling operational data. This comes after The Atlantic published a report alleging Patel engaged in heavy drinking, missed key meetings, and used agency resources for personal benefit, including travel linked to his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins. Patel also reportedly demanded government jets and luxury vehicles at taxpayer expense, while being filmed celebrating with the U.S. men’s ice hockey team in Milan during the Winter Olympics.

FBI spokesman Ben Williamson denied claims that Patel has distanced himself from senior leadership, stating he has attended daily operational meetings. "I’ve been in the usual operational leader meetings with him every day this week … it’s false," Williamson said, adding that criticism stems from "panicans" in the media. He declined to confirm or deny the polygraph orders.

Agents have expressed discomfort with both the polygraph initiative and a separate criminal leak investigation opened into The Atlantic article, particularly given that no classified information was involved. Typically, such investigations are reserved for cases involving national security breaches. Internal concerns have grown over Patel’s hands-on involvement in critical investigations, as White House officials reportedly grow frustrated with the negative publicity.

The Justice Department has not commented on Patel’s status. The FBI is expected to continue its internal review, while the White House is assessing Patel’s position amid mounting scrutiny. The director’s future in the role remains uncertain as senior administration officials weigh options.