Democrats Launch Probe into Kash Patel’s Use of FBI Gulfstream Jet
Top Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee have initiated an inquiry into FBI Director Kash Patel’s use of the agency’s Gulfstream jet. They focus on Patel’s travel linked to personal matters, including attending his girlfriend’s performance at a Pennsylvania sporting event.
Committee members cited media reports alleging Patel used the FBI jet for leisure flights, such as a “date night” in Tennessee and a trip with friends to Texas. Democrats demand detailed travel records, passenger information, and communications related to these flights.
Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove of California addressed a letter to Patel regarding an October 25 flight to Pennsylvania. The letter stated, “You flew there because your girlfriend was performing at a wrestling match on the campus of Pennsylvania State University.” They noted Patel’s use of the government jet to return with his girlfriend to Nashville the next day. The letter emphasized that the “date night” had no official government purpose.
The inquiry also scrutinizes a Texas trip reported by the Wall Street Journal. According to the letter, Patel flew to San Angelo, Texas, for four days to visit Boondoggle Ranch, described as a “scenic hunting resort” known for “wasting money or time on unnecessary or questionable projects.” The ranch is owned by Republican mega-donor Bubba Saulsbury.
The FBI has not yet responded to requests for comment on this matter. The Democrats’ investigation relies on publicly available flight logs and social media posts from Patel’s girlfriend that revealed these travels.
Democrats requested that Patel submit travel documentation by December 15. However, as minority members, they lack subpoena power and can only request the records. They stressed, “These planes are not yours. They are the property of the U.S. Government and are paid for by the American people.”
FBI policy requires directors to use government aircraft for all travel to maintain secure communications and rapid response capabilities. Personal flights must be reimbursed at coach fare, including costs for accompanying family or friends.
Earlier reports from CBS News highlighted Patel’s use of FBI aircraft for trips to Las Vegas and Nashville. Flight tracking data confirmed Patel’s presence on the FBI Gulfstream for weekend trips during March. The ongoing scrutiny reflects concerns about appropriate use of government resources by top officials.
Read more at: www.cbsnews.com
