A senior White House official believes Kash Patel is 'likely the next Cabinet-level official to go,' according toreporting by Politico's Dasha Burns. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said it is 'only a matter of time' before action is taken.
The development comes amid a turbulent period within Trump's leadership circle, following the recent dismissal of Navy Secretary John Phelan and ongoing scrutiny surrounding Patel's conduct as FBI Director.
Burns' reporting indicates that one official pointed to the 'number of negative stories' surrounding Patel as a key factor, describing the situation as 'not a good look for a Cabinet secretary.'
The concern is less about any single controversy and more about the cumulative effect. In an administration that places a premium on optics and loyalty, repeated distractions can quickly become liabilities.
The timing is also notable. The recent dismissal of Navy Secretary John Phelan by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has heightened expectations that further shake-ups could follow. Phelan's removal was reportedly linked to a dispute over the pace of shipbuilding reform, reinforcing the perception that no position is entirely secure.
NEW: A top White House official tells me that Kash Patel is likely the next Cabinet-level official to go.“It’s only a matter of time,” the official, who was granted anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter, told me.There are several reasons, the official said, but top among…pic.twitter.com/FUKftCuZNg
Compounding Patel's challenges is a high-profile legal dispute with The Atlantic. Patel has filed a $250 million lawsuit against the publication following an article by staff writer Sarah Fitzpatrick that alleged troubling behaviour, including claims of excessive drinking and unexplained absences.
The article also described an incident in which Patel reportedly panicked over a locked FBI computer account, fearing he had been dismissed. Patel has strongly contested the claims, but the lawsuit has only amplified public attention.
In response,The Atlantic stated it 'stands by its reporting'and intends to 'vigorously defend' its journalists, setting the stage for a prolonged legal battle.
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Source: International Business Times UK
