Donald Trump’s FBI Chief Pick Kash Patel Touches Parents’ Feet, Says ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ At US Senate Hearing (Video) |
Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel, former President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the FBI, was seen on Thursday seeking blessings from his parents by touching their feet ahead of his confirmation hearing. The moment, captured in a viral video, highlighted Patel’s deep respect for his Indian heritage. Before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Patel also greeted his family with “Jai Shri Krishna” while introducing them.
Kash Greets Family Saying ‘Jai Shri Krishna’
During his opening remarks, the 44-year-old lawyer of Gujarati descent acknowledged his parents, Pramod and Anjana, who travelled from India to be present for his hearing. He also mentioned his sister, Nisha, who had journeyed across the oceans to support him. “It means the world that you guys are here. Jai Shri Krishna,” Patel said, expressing gratitude for their love and guidance.
Patel emphasized that he carried not just the dreams of his immigrant parents but also the aspirations of millions of Americans who believe in justice, fairness and the rule of law. He expressed deep honor at being nominated for the FBI Director’s position by Trump, crediting his parents’ sacrifices for his achievements. If confirmed, Patel would make history as the first Hindu and Indian-American to lead the FBI.
Who Is Kash Patel?
Patel has built a diverse career spanning law, national security, and government service. Beginning as a public defender, he handled complex cases involving murder and financial crimes at both state and federal levels. He later joined the Department of Justice (DOJ) as a terrorism prosecutor, where he led investigations and prosecutions against Al-Qaeda and ISIS operatives.
In 2018, Patel gained prominence as a top aide to Republican Congressman Devin Nunes on the House Intelligence Committee. He played a key role in efforts to challenge the FBI’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, authoring a classified memo that accused the FBI of surveillance abuses targeting Trump campaign advisers.
His government career continued with roles in Trump’s administration, including on the National Security Council in 2019. He later served as chief of staff to the acting defence secretary during the final months of Trump’s presidency. Patel has expressed a strong vision for declassifying government documents and revoking security clearances for officials involved in past investigations concerning Trump.
