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FBI Director Kash Patel endorsed President Donald Trump’s plans to take over the Metropolitan Police Department to tackle crime in Washington D.C., amid heavy criticism from Democrats and local officials who say the move is part of a power grab.

Patel was seen Monday afternoon inside a command post for the first night of the temporary takeover in a show of support for law enforcement.

“Proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the men and women who keep our nation’s capital safe,” Patel said in an exclusive statement to Fox News Digital. “When you let good cops be cops, give them the tools they need, and back them every step of the way, they deliver – every time.”

In photos exclusively provided to Fox News Digital, Patel can be seen speaking M

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