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Governor Newsom Slams FBI Director Over Conduct Allegations

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized FBI Director Kash Patel after a report alleging Patel's excessive drinking and erratic behavior.
Newsom shared a mocking video of Patel, who plans to sue The Atlantic for the claims.
The report describes Patel as a national security risk, citing unnamed officials' concerns about his conduct.
Patel faced backlash for his management of investigations into high-profile shootings and his use of taxpayer-funded jets.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized FBI Director Kash Patel after a report alleging Patel's excessive drinking and erratic behavior.
Newsom shared a mocking video of Patel, who plans to sue The Atlantic for the claims.
The report describes Patel as a national security risk, citing unnamed officials' concerns about his conduct.
Patel faced backlash for his management of investigations into high-profile shootings and his use of taxpayer-funded jets.