Federal Judge Dismisses Kash Patel's Defamation Lawsuit Against Frank Figliuzzi

A federal judge in Texas has dismissed FBI Director Kash Patel's defamation lawsuit against Frank Figliuzzi, a former FBI assistant director and current MSNBC contributor. The lawsuit stemmed from comments Figliuzzi made during a May 2025 appearance on "Morning Joe," where he stated that Patel had been "visible at nightclubs far more than he has been on the seventh floor of the Hoover building." U.S. District Judge George Hanks Jr. ruled that Figliuzzi's remarks constituted "rhetorical hyperbole" and could not be interpreted as factual statements. The judge emphasized that a reasonable person would not take Figliuzzi's comments literally, thus Patel's claim failed to meet the legal standard for defamation.

Judge Tosses Patel’s First Defamation Suit—The Day After He Filed His SecondNew York PostFBI Director Kash Patel Faces Major Rejection From Judge Over New LawsuitNBC NewsUnited Press International (UPI)NewserWashington ExaminerJudge Dismisses Kash Patel Defamation Suit Against Frank FigliuzziNewsOneRaw Story

Patel filed the lawsuit in June 2025, alleging that Figliuzzi's comments were fabricated and driven by animus towards him. The judge noted that Figliuzzi's statement was made in an exaggerated and humorous manner, intended as a critique rather than a factual assertion. Figliuzzi's lawyer, Marc Fuller, described the ruling as a "victory for press freedom and the First Amendment." However, the judge denied Figliuzzi's request for attorney fees under Texas' anti-SLAPP law, which is designed to protect individuals from meritless lawsuits aimed at silencing public criticism.

NewserJudge Tosses Patel’s First Defamation Suit—The Day After He Filed His SecondNBC NewsWashington ExaminerNew York PostUnited Press International (UPI)Raw StoryFBI Director Kash Patel Faces Major Rejection From Judge Over New LawsuitThe WrapLaw & Crime

The dismissal of the defamation suit against Figliuzzi occurred just one day after Patel filed a separate $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic. This new lawsuit alleges that an article published by the magazine contained false claims about Patel's drinking habits and unexplained absences, which he argues could jeopardize national security. The Atlantic has defended its reporting, asserting that it stands by the accuracy of the article and will vigorously contest Patel's claims.

Deadline HollywoodFBI Director Kash Patel Faces Major Rejection From Judge Over New LawsuitWashington ExaminerThe WrapLaw & CrimeNBC NewsNew York PostRaw StoryJudge Tosses Patel’s First Defamation Suit—The Day After He Filed His SecondJudge Dismisses Kash Patel Defamation Suit Against Frank Figliuzzi

In response to the ruling, Figliuzzi's legal team expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the importance of protecting free speech. Patel's attorney, Jesse Binnall, criticized the court's decision, suggesting it undermines the reliability of statements made by public figures. Patel himself has publicly denied the allegations made against him, asserting that he has never been intoxicated while on the job and describing the media coverage as "fake news."

The Wrap

Critics of Patel's legal strategy argue that his lawsuits may be attempts to silence dissent and criticism regarding his leadership at the FBI. The juxtaposition of his lawsuits against Figliuzzi and The Atlantic raises questions about the implications of public figures using legal avenues to challenge media narratives. Some commentators have suggested that Patel's actions could set a concerning precedent for press freedom.

Raw Story

Following the dismissal of the defamation suit against Figliuzzi, Patel has indicated plans to appeal the ruling. The outcome of his ongoing lawsuit against The Atlantic remains to be seen, as both parties prepare for a legal battle over the allegations made in the article. The developments in these cases will likely continue to attract media attention and public scrutiny regarding Patel's conduct and the broader implications for journalistic integrity.

FBI Director Kash Patel Faces Major Rejection From Judge Over New Lawsuit