Trump selects former aide Patel to head the FBI and a Florida sheriff to lead the DEA.

US President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Kash Patel, a former aide, to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, who has frequently criticized the agency, previously served as chief of staff at the Department of Defense during Trump’s first term and has been a loyal supporter of the president-elect.

For Patel to assume the position, current FBI Director Christopher Wray would need to step down or be removed. However, Trump did not explicitly call for Wray’s resignation in his announcement.

Trump also plans to nominate Chad Chronister, sheriff of Hillsborough County, Florida, to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

These nominations, along with Attorney General pick Pam Bondi, reflect Trump’s efforts to shape his law enforcement team. On the same day, Trump announced his selection of Charles Kushner, father of Jared Kushner and a real estate developer, as ambassador to France. This is the first formal position Trump has offered to a family member since his re-election.

All three appointments require Senate confirmation.

Kash Patel: A Controversial Choice

Patel has been a vocal advocate for reshaping the FBI, calling for significant changes to its structure and authority. In his memoir, Government Gangsters, he criticized the agency for “government tyranny” and proposed removing senior leadership.

A former defense lawyer and federal prosecutor, Patel gained Trump’s attention while serving as senior counsel on the House Intelligence Committee in 2017. He later joined the Trump administration as a national security aide and eventually became the Pentagon chief of staff.

Trump praised Patel on Truth Social, describing him as a "brilliant lawyer, investigator, and 'America First' fighter" who champions "truth, accountability, and the constitution."

Patel’s career includes publishing pro-Trump children’s books, such as The Plot Against the King, featuring characters modeled after political figures like Hillary Clinton and James Comey.

The FBI responded to the announcement, emphasizing Director Wray’s ongoing focus on protecting Americans and supporting the agency’s workforce.

Chad Chronister: A Veteran Lawman

Chronister brings over three decades of law enforcement experience. Since 2017, he has served as sheriff of Hillsborough County, Florida. Trump highlighted Chronister’s expertise and his commitment to combating drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, as priorities for his DEA role.

On social media, Chronister expressed gratitude, calling the nomination “the honor of a lifetime.”

Charles Kushner as Ambassador to France

Charles Kushner, a real estate developer and father of Jared Kushner, was nominated to serve as ambassador to France. The move underscores Trump’s trust in his inner circle as he assembles his administration.

These appointments, pending Senate approval, signal Trump’s focus on loyalty and his vision for reforming key government institutions.