The internet is in shambles after FBI Director Kash Patel popped out in Italy looking more like a frat bro than the head of a federal agency. And whew, the timeline has not been quiet.
According to reports, Kash Patel turns up with Team USA hockey champs after reportedly taking FBI jet to Italy — and folks have questions.
Patel appeared in widely shared videos chugging beer and partying alongside gold medal-winning members of Team USA hockey on Sunday at the Olympics in Milano Cortina. Yes, you read that right. The FBI chief was in the locker room vibes-heavy, smiling big, celebrating like he just scored the winning goal himself.
However, the celebration comes at a messy time. The FBI chief has was previously accused of using federal government resources to take “extravagant” trips with his girlfriend, allegedly earning him the derisive nickname “Make-a-Wish Director” behind closed doors.
So naturally, when Kash Patel turns up with Team New USA hockey champs after reportedly taking FBI jet to Italy, the optics hit different. People aren’t just watching — they’re analyzing.
Kash Patel Turns Up with Team USA Hockey Champs After Reportedly Taking FBI Jet to Italy — The Viral Locker Room Moment
Patel was captured celebrating in the locker room on team member Dylan Larkin’s Instagram Live. Not low-key. Not subtle. Full celebration mode. Other footage obtained appears to show Patel chugging a bottle of beer and screaming in celebration as player put a gold medal around his neck.
Now listen — nobody is mad at celebrating Team USA. A gold medal is a big deal.
Hours before those locker room clips went viral, a spokesperson for his agency blasted the mere suggestion that Patel had used government resources for a personal vacation.
On top of that, in posts to X over the weekend during his trip to Italy, the FBI director highlighted visits with various officials including Italian ministers, including one announcing a new security agreement to enhance international cybersecurity cooperation. So officially, the trip had business on the books.
Still, critics say perception is everything. It’s an awkward look for the director, whose agency is already battling perceptions that he is unqualified for the job and unserious with his management of the agency and use of its resources.
Meanwhile, others argue he can handle business and still celebrate American excellence. After all, diplomacy often includes cultural events. However, the energy online suggests folks aren’t fully convinced.