FBI Director Kash Patel is facing criticism after videos surfaced showing him celebrating with the USA Olympic hockey team following their gold medal victory. The American team won their first Olympic hockey gold in 46 years, defeating Canada in a dramatic final with a winning goal by Jack Hughes.
According to reports, Patel joined the team in their locker room celebration, where he was seen drinking, dancing, and wearing a gold medal around his neck. The celebration videos spread widely on social media, prompting questions about whether taxpayer funds should cover such trips for FBI officials.
For the very concerned media - yes, I love America and I humbly accepted the invitation from my friends on the national team.
Patel defended his actions in a post on X, writing: 'For the very concerned media - yes, I love America and I humbly accepted the invitation from my friends on the national team.' He added that he was 'honored' to celebrate 'this historic moment with the guys - the best country on earth and the best sport on earth.'
The FBI director had traveled to Italy earlier in the week and reportedly followed several hockey games during the Olympics. FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson reportedly emphasized that the federal police agency plays a significant role in security around the games, which will be held in Los Angeles next time.
I was 'honored' to celebrate 'this historic moment with the guys - the best country on earth and the best sport on earth.'
Critics have questioned the appropriateness of the FBI director's personal involvement in sports celebrations, particularly on what appears to be a taxpayer-funded trip. The controversy comes amid reports of a separate security incident involving a 21-year-old man with a weapon at former President Donald Trump's home on the same day.