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FBI Director Kash Patel Suits The Atlantic for $250 M

4/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic, calling it “fake news” and saying the claims threaten the FBI’s crime-reduction record.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Patel remains a critical member of President Donald Trump’s law-and-order team.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche praised Patel, noting his 14-month achievements exceed the prior administration’s record.

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Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic, calling it “fake news” and saying the claims threaten the FBI’s crime-reduction record.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Patel remains a critical member of President Donald Trump’s law-and-order team.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche praised Patel, noting his 14-month achievements exceed the prior administration’s record.