U.S. President-elect, Donald Trump, has announced Kashyap “Kash” Patel as his pick for the next director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). 

Mr Trump made the declaration via his social media platform, lauding Mr Patel as a “brilliant lawyer, investigator, and ‘America First’ fighter.”  

Mr Patel, a lawyer with experience in law enforcement, has been a key ally of Mr Trump and an outspoken critic of perceived corruption within the federal government. 

Mr Trump highlighted Mr Patel’s role in exposing what he calls the “Russia hoax,” referring to investigations into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.  

In his statement, Mr Trump pledged that under Mr Patel’s leadership, the FBI would tackle America’s “growing crime epidemic,” dismantle criminal gangs at the border, and address human and drug trafficking. 

He also emphasised that Mr Patel would work under Pam Bondi, Mr Trump’s choice for attorney general, to restore the FBI’s core values of fidelity, bravery, and integrity.  

Mr Patel, 43, has built a reputation as a prominent legal and political figure in conservative circles. 

He rose to national prominence during Mr Trump’s presidency, serving in several high-profile roles, including chief of staff at the department of defense and deputy director of national intelligence.  

A graduate of the University of Richmond and Pace University School of Law, Mr Patel initially worked as a public defender before transitioning to federal roles, including positions at the Department of Justice. 

He played a key role in counterterrorism efforts and has tried over 60 jury cases during his legal career.  

Mr Patel gained particular attention for his role as a staffer on the house intelligence committee, where he helped shape Republican efforts to challenge the legitimacy of the Russia investigation. 

Since leaving government, he has remained a vocal advocate for Mr Trump’s agenda and has frequently criticised what he describes as deep-seated corruption in federal institutions.