During a House Intelligence Committee hearing on “worldwide threats,” FBI Director Kash Patel reportedly engaged in a tense exchange with Democratic Representative Chrissy Houlahan regarding a potential investigation into a leaked Signal group chat.
This chat involved Trump administration officials discussing plans for airstrikes against the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists in Yemen.
Rep. Houlahan questioned Patel directly, asking if it was time for the FBI to consider opening an investigation into the leak. Patel, without hesitation, responded, “I’m not going to comment on that.”
This prompted Houlahan to express her frustration, questioning why he, as the FBI director, wouldn’t feel it appropriate to address the matter.
Patel explained that there are ongoing responses to the Signal controversy, including a lawsuit filed by the organization American Oversight, which claims that the officials involved violated the Federal Records Act.
He stated, “There’s a process in place,” emphasizing that the National Security Council is reviewing the situation, and he would not discuss any open or closed investigations.
Houlahan remained persistent, noting the timing of the lawsuit and implying that Patel should have an opinion given the circumstances.
Patel firmly retorted, indicating that he would not prejudge any matter and asserted that the responsibility to assess the situation lies with the FBI, not with her.
As Houlahan attempted to reclaim her time for further questioning, she faced interruptions from Chairman Rick Crawford, who limited her to merely seconds remaining.
Despite her insistence that she deserved more time to express her concerns, the hearing proceeded as Crawford declared, “the Gentlewoman’s time has expired,” moving on to the next questioner.
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