FBI DirectorKash Patel’sgirlfriend was selected to sing thenational anthemahead of Defense SecretaryPete Hegseth’santi-abortion speech toChristian broadcasters atthe NRB's "Freedom 250" event.
Alexis Wilkins, a country singer who is dating Patel, was chosen to sing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ to kick off the event in Nashville, Tennessee.
Late last year, Patel was forced to defend his decision to use a private jet to visit Wilkins after congressional Democrats launched an investigation.
Patel and Wilkins appeared on theKatie Miller Podcast— hosted by the wife of Trump advisorStephen Miller—during whichthe FBI director insisted he's not allowed to fly commercial and that he pays for his own travel.
“It’s ironic that they’re saying, ‘Oh, you’re going on vacation or you’re going to see your girlfriend perform’,” he said. “And if I was actually abusing it, I would go see every one of her shows. I think I get to like 15 percent.”
Patel was again questioned about his use of aircraft after announcing hisplans to visit the Winter Olympicsin Milan. On Thursday, the FBI denied claims that Patel was going to use an agency aircraft to travel to the games.
Back at the NRB conference, Wilkins wasn't the only one who performed. Joining her was the 101st Airborne Division's color guard, which was forced to attend the event and watch Hegseth deliver his remarks to the National Religious Broadcasters group.
Tickets for the event ran between $300 and $750, according to theDaily Beast.
Those willing to shell out hundreds of dollars were allowed to see Hegseth rant about how half the country is "godless" and run through anti-abortion and anti-trans talking points.
He kicked off his comments by stating that he was bringing greetings from "a fighter for the people of faith, President Donald J Trump."
Source: Drudge Report
