Kash Patel has emerged as one of the most enigmatic figures in Trump’s political orbit, sparking intense reactions from both allies and detractors alike. A 40-year-old lawyer with limited government experience, Patel’s rise within the Trump administration was meteoric and deeply polarizing. His journey from an obscure legal career to positions of significant influence is marked by controversy, loyalty, and a dogged pursuit of power.
A Loyalist Above All Else
Patel’s trajectory into the Trump administration began in 2019, with roles that spanned the National Security Council, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and finally, the Department of Defense. His appointments frequently alarmed seasoned officials. Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, reportedly warned Patel not to break the law in service of Trump, allegedly telling him, “Life looks really shitty from behind bars.” Similarly, Attorney General Bill Barr and CIA Director Gina Haspel pushed back on Patel’s proposed promotions, with Haspel threatening to resign when Trump suggested Patel for a top CIA role.
Despite these clashes, Patel’s allegiance to Trump was unwavering. Many officials noted that Patel’s danger didn’t stem from an ideological zeal, but from his singular focus on serving Trump’s interests, even without a clear plan or strategy. This adaptability—or, as some described it, recklessness—made him indispensable to Trump.
A lot of people say he’s crazy,” Trump reportedly remarked, according to an adviser. “But sometimes you need a little crazy.
A Chaotic Tenure
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Throughout his tenure, Patel cultivated a reputation as a disruptor. His moves often bypassed established protocols, frustrating career officials who saw him as a wildcard in sensitive national security matters. From questionable claims about Trump declassifying documents to his involvement in high-stakes decisions like a SEAL Team 6 rescue mission in West Africa, Patel frequently found himself at the center of controversy. In one instance, his premature green light for the mission nearly led to a catastrophic international incident.
His actions raised questions about his motives. Was he driven by a desire to secure Trump’s approval, or was it simply inexperience? Either way, Patel’s missteps often left senior officials scrambling to manage fallout while questioning how someone so unqualified had risen so high.
Building the Brand
Since leaving office, Patel has leaned into his association with Trump, turning his name into a brand synonymous with unwavering loyalty to the former president. He has penned books, sold merchandise, and produced songs that amplify Trump’s rhetoric. His children’s book, The Plot Against the King, portrays Patel as a heroic wizard defending “King Donald” against a sinister “deep state.”
Patel’s ventures extend into conservative media, where he promotes products ranging from COVID-19 “detox” pills to Christian payment processors. Despite his public-facing success, sources close to Patel describe a man deeply frustrated by his inability to achieve the financial success he believes he deserves. “He complains about money all the time—like, he doesn’t have any money, can’t make any money, nobody will hire him,” one Trump adviser said.
The Future of Kash Patel
As Trump eyes a potential return to the White House, Patel’s loyalty positions him as a likely candidate for key roles in a second administration. Whether leading the FBI, CIA, or acting as attorney general, Patel has signaled his readiness to take the reins. His approach, however, remains defined by the same unflinching devotion to Trump that unnerved officials during his first tenure.
For Trump, Patel’s willingness to act without question makes him invaluable. For critics, it underscores the dangers of consolidating power in individuals whose loyalty to a single figure supersedes all else. As one former official put it, “Kash is the one you say to, ‘Hey, I’m not telling you to go break into the DNC. But …’”
In Patel’s world, loyalty is the currency that matters most—a lesson he seems eager to bring back to Washington.
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Featured image via YouTube screengrab
