FBI Director Kash Patel is facing questioning in a Senate hearing focused on the investigation into Charlie Kirk’s murder and recent firings of senior officials who have accused Patel of illegal political retribution.

Patel returned to the committee for the first time since his confirmation hearing in January, when he claimed that he would not pursue retribution as director.

During the Tuesday hearing, Patel lauded his leadership at the FBI and shared a series of what he said were accomplishments of his first months on the job, including his efforts to fight violent crime and protect children. The Associated Press reported that he closed his remarks by saying: "If you want to criticize my 16 years of service, please bring it on."

FBI agent firings

The other side:

The committee shifted

See Full Page