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FBI Director Kash Patel Sues Atlantic for $250 Million

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic and writer Sarah Fitzpatrick on April 20, contesting their report.
The Atlantic’s report quoted FBI officials who said Patel’s absences, panic episodes, and drinking raised doubts about his fitness for office.
Hockey teammates said Patel’s demeanor in an Olympic video looked markedly different from the coach they remembered after he left coaching for a job in President Donald Trump’s administration.

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Story summary

FBI Director Kash Patel filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic and writer Sarah Fitzpatrick on April 20, contesting their report.
The Atlantic’s report quoted FBI officials who said Patel’s absences, panic episodes, and drinking raised doubts about his fitness for office.
Hockey teammates said Patel’s demeanor in an Olympic video looked markedly different from the coach they remembered after he left coaching for a job in President Donald Trump’s administration.