Clinton Named on FBI Nominee's 'Enemy List'
Kash Patel's so-called "Enemy List" has become one of the most talked-about documents in Washington, a declaration of war from one of Trump's most loyal defenders. Known for his hard-hitting, no-holds-barred approach, Patel's list targets those he sees as threats to his vision of America. Political adversaries, Trump critics, and anyone who's stood in his way are all on the list. As a key figure in the Russia investigation, his unapologetic stance has marked Patel's rise through the ranks, and his infamous list signals the fierce political battle ahead.
From Public Defender to Washington Insider
Patel began his legal career as a public defender in Florida before joining the Department of Justice in 2013, focusing on national security issues. In 2017, his work on the House Intelligence Committee under Devin Nunes brought him national attention. Patel co-authored the "Nunes Memo," which alleged the FBI had mishandled surveillance during its investigation into Trump's 2016 campaign ties to Russia.
Patel's loyalty to Trump became his defining trait, propelling him to senior roles on the National Security Council and at the Pentagon. However, his tenure was marked by controversy, including allegations of leaking sensitive information and his role in nearly compromising a military rescue mission in 2020, as reported by CNN.
The Enemy List: Who's on It?
Kash Patel's list is a political grenade that's detonated across Washington, sparking controversy and scandal. Describing his targets as corrupt actors and threats to democracy, Patel is drawing a battle line between his vision of America and those he deems enemies of the state. For Patel, this list appears to be an unflinching declaration of who must be removed from the political stage. But who are the names that have earned his wrath?
Notable Names on the List
Patel's list doesn't just include political adversaries — it spans a shocking range of power players from both sides of the aisle. What's more, the list includes some of the most prominent figures in Trump's inner circle, all marked for their perceived betrayals or failures. Here's a glimpse at the power brokers who made Patel's cut.
Former Trump Officials:
- Bill Barr (Attorney General under Trump): Included for refusing to appoint Patel as deputy FBI director.
- John Bolton (National Security Adviser): Criticized for reluctantly hiring Patel and opposing his influence.
- Mark Esper (Secretary of Defense): Allegedly tried to fire Patel during his Pentagon tenure.
- Christopher Wray (Current FBI Director): Targeted for his perceived failure to support Trump's agenda.
Democratic Leaders:
- Joe Biden (President): Represented as a symbol of opposition to Trump.
- Kamala Harris (Vice President): Included alongside Biden as part of a broader critique of Democratic leadership.
- Hillary Clinton (Former Secretary of State): A frequent subject of Republican criticism.
Key Law Enforcement Figures:
- James Comey (Former FBI Director) and Andrew McCabe (Former FBI Deputy Director): Accused of mishandling investigations into Trump.
- Peter Strzok and Lisa Page (Former FBI Officials): Known for their controversial text messages about Trump.
Others in National Security and Intelligence:
- John Brennan (Former CIA Director) and James Clapper (Former Director of National Intelligence): Criticized for their roles in the Russia investigation.
- Michael Atkinson (Former Inspector General of the Intelligence Community): Linked to the whistleblower complaint that led to Trump's first impeachment.
Why Are They on the List?
Patel's grievances focus on accusations of disloyalty and political obstruction. For instance, Barr's inclusion stems from his refusal to appoint Patel to a senior FBI role, while intelligence officials like Brennan and Clapper are blamed for what Patel calls a politically motivated investigation into Trump. Other individuals, such as Bolton and Esper, are criticized for opposing Patel's advancement within the Trump administration.
Patel's Vision for the FBI
If confirmed, Patel promises radical reforms to the FBI, including:
- Shutting Down FBI Headquarters: Patel has stated he would turn the J. Edgar Hoover Building into a "museum of the deep state", as reported by the Associated Press, and redistribute its 7,000 employees to field offices across the country.
- Restructuring Intelligence Functions: He advocates separating the FBI's intelligence operations from its law enforcement duties, a move critics argue could weaken national security.
- Surveillance Reforms: Patel has called for major changes to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), arguing that it has been misused against Trump and his allies. However, he has also acknowledged its importance for national security.
Supporters believe Patel's outsider perspective could bring accountability to the FBI. Critics, however, question his managerial experience and fear his partisanship could undermine the bureau's independence.
A Divisive Nomination
Patel's nomination has reignited debates about the FBI's role in modern America. Trump has described him as "very good and very fair," as reported by CNN, highlighting his legal background as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. However, Senate Democrats and some Republicans have expressed concern about Patel's adversarial history with federal agencies and his controversial rhetoric, including his so-called "enemy list."
Whether Patel's nomination succeeds remains uncertain, but it is clear that his vision for the FBI represents a sharp departure from its current structure. His nomination could redefine not only the agency's future but also its role in safeguarding the rule of law.
References: 'Someone Who Sees Enemies Everywhere': How Kash Patel's Years as a Government Lawyer Fueled His Disdain for Washington Elites | Trump's FBI pick has plans to reshape the bureau. This is what Kash Patel has said he wants to do | Trump picks loyalist Kash Patel to head FBI | The Who's Who on Kash Patel's Crazy Enemies List | How fierce Trump ally Kash Patel could help reshape the FBI or Justice Department
