Kash Patel, U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee to be director of the FBI, looks on as he testifies before a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., January 30, 2025. Evelyn Hockstein | ReutersPresident Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the FBI, Kash Patel
Day: February 11, 2025
 |
Michael_Novakhov shared this story . |
Kash Patel, U.S. President Donald Trump’s nominee to be director of the FBI, looks on as he testifies before a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., January 30, 2025.
Evelyn Hockstein | Reuters
President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the FBI, Kash Patel, was accused Tuesday of personally directing an “ongoing purge” of civil servants at the agency before being confirmed by the Senate.
In a letter to the Justice Department’s internal watchdog, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., wrote that he had “received highly credible information from multiple sources,” who described Patel’s alleged involvement in the personnel decisions.
“This alleged misconduct is beyond the pale and must be investigated immediately,” wrote Durbin, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, in the letter to Inspector General Michael Horowitz.
“It is unacceptable for a nominee with no current role in government, much less at the FBI, to personally direct unjustified and potentially illegal adverse employment actions against senior career FBI leadership and other dedicated, nonpartisan law enforcement officers,” the senator wrote.
Trump nominated Patel, a loyalist who has called for rooting out anti-Trump “conspirators” in the government and the media, on Nov. 30.
Patel has not yet been confirmed by the Senate; the Judiciary Committee is expected to vote Thursday on whether to advance his nomination.
“If these allegations are true,” wrote Durbin, then Patel “may have perjured himself” at his recent Senate confirmation hearing.
Lying to Congress — whether under oath or not — is a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison. But doing so rarely leads to criminal charges.
After asking the White House for comment on the letter, CNBC was referred to a tweet earlier Tuesday from Patel spokeswoman Erica Knight, who accused media outlets of “relying on anonymous sources and second-hand gossip to push a false narrative.”
“Kash Patel is a highly qualified national security expert who has been fully transparent with the American people throughout this process and has demonstrated the integrity and leadership needed for this role,” she wrote in the post. “The Senate should confirm him without delay.”
The FBI declined to comment on Durbin’s letter, which was first reported by The New York Times.
Durbin’s sources alleged Patel has been receiving internal FBI information from a member of a newly established unit called the Director’s Advisory Team.
Patel then allegedly “provides direction” to White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, who relays it to top Trump officials, including acting deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, Durbin wrote.
Patel’s relationships with people running the FBI in an acting capacity were previously reported by NBC News.
Durbin’s subsequent allegation that Patel may have perjured himself before the Senate stems from an exchange Patel had with Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., during his confirmation hearing before the Judiciary panel on Jan. 30.
“Are you aware of any plans or discussions to punish in any way, including termination, FBI agents or personnel associated with Trump investigations?” Booker asked Patel.
The nominee replied that he was “not aware.”
Patel also claimed that he did not know “what’s going on right now over there, but I’m committed to you, senator, and your colleagues that I will honor the internal review process of the FBI.”
“All FBI employees will be protected against political retribution,” Patel told the senators, while downplaying some of his other controversial past remarks.
Patel’s remarks came as the Trump administration was pushing out several top FBI officials and federal prosecutors, including some who were involved in prosecuting people charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
The events at DOJ have opened a “leadership and experience vacuum” that has “made Americans less safe,” Durbin wrote to Horowitz.
“The ramifications of removing senior leaders and threatening the removal of thousands of other FBI agents are particularly disastrous,” he added.
“The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated,” wrote Durbin.
#FBI
Trump FBI pick Kash Patel accused of directing staff purge as nominee https://t.co/MofdW93gA6— Michael Novakhov (@mikenov) February 11, 2025
Climb back into play-in hunt with recent run https://t.co/DtIPTUedc5
— Brooklyn Eagle (@BklynEagle) February 11, 2025
I’ve been working hard to make our state more affordable and to put money back in New Yorkers’ pockets.
They can’t afford a massive increase to their utility bills.
I’m calling on the @NYSDPS to reject @ConEdison’s exorbitant rate hike proposal. pic.twitter.com/WkiF39eWGr
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) February 11, 2025
Four federal employees were fired Tuesday over payments to reimburse NYC for hotel costs for migrants, officials said.
The post 4 FEMA employees are fired over payments to reimburse New York City for hotel costs for migrants appeared first on Brooklyn Eagle.
The post 4 FEMA employees are fired over payments to reimburse New York City for hotel costs for migrants first appeared on The Ocean Avenue News – oceanavenuenews.com.
HE BROOKLYN NAVY YARD has established a new Council to help advance the Navy Yard’s goal of investing in its manufacturing industries.
The post Industry Development Council inaugurated at Brooklyn Navy Yard appeared first on Brooklyn Eagle.
The post Industry Development Council inaugurated at Brooklyn Navy Yard first appeared on The Ocean Avenue News – oceanavenuenews.com.
Brooklyn is brimming with ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re planning a swoon-worthy date, a lively Galentine’s night out, or just want to treat yourself (because self-love counts too!), the borough has something for every vibe.
From hands-on workshops and indulgent tastings to electrifying live music and creative experiences, this Valentine’s lineup guarantees you’ll feel the love — no matter who you’re celebrating with.
Here are some ways to spend the holiday in the heart of Brooklyn:
Axe Your Ex Valentine’s Day Party
Thursday, Feb. 13 through Sunday, Feb. 16, various times
Kick Axe Throwing, 622 Degraw St. in Gowanus
Release your Valentine’s Day frustrations in the most cathartic way possible — by hurling axes at your ex’s photo! Whether you’re celebrating with friends or flying solo, enjoy drink specials, tasty bites, and a fun-filled atmosphere. New this year: project your ex’s photo on the target in real-time.
Textured Paint and Sip
Friday, Feb. 14, 6-8 p.m.
Brooklyn Living Room, 268 36th St., Studio C-252 in Sunset Park
$80
Brush off the stress and let your creativity flow at this paint-and-sip soirée! Sip on curated drinks, munch on delicious treats, and paint your heart out with the help of professional instructors. It’s the perfect way to wine, unwind, and create your own masterpiece this Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Speed Dating at Lovejoys
Friday, Feb. 14, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Lovejoys, 412 Troutman St. in Bushwick
$39.19
Ready to meet a bunch of fun singles in one night? Lovejoys’ speed dating event has you covered with 15+ three-minute dates, all in a laid-back, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for your match or just a night full of laughs, this fast-paced, fun experience is your ticket to making new connections and unforgettable memories.
Valentine’s Dinner at IKEA Brooklyn
Friday, Feb. 14, 5-8 p.m.
IKEA Brooklyn, 1 Beard St. in Red Hook
Free
Spice up your Valentine’s Day with a cozy dinner at IKEA Brooklyn’s Swedish restaurant! IKEA Family members get a sweet deal—buy one adult entrée, get the second 50% off, plus snag extra discounts on your shopping spree.
Valentine’s Day Sake and Desserts Pairing
Friday, Feb. 14, 6:30-8 p.m.
Brooklyn Kura, 68 34th St., Building 6 in Sunset Park
$108
This indulgent event pairs Japanese craft sakes with decadent desserts, including lavender cookies and heritage strawberries. Sake expert Timothy Sullivan leads the tasting and offers a tour of the brewery.
About A Girl Valentine’s Pop-Up: Cocktails, Cookies & Cobain
Friday, Feb. 14, 8-11 p.m.
Barrow’s Intense NY Tasting Room, 86 34th St., Building 6 in Sunset Park
Free
Enjoy decadent treats from Little Red Kitchen, spicy ginger cocktails and live performances, including a complete set of Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged.
Walrus: 5th Annual Valentine’s Show
Friday, Feb. 14, Doors at 6 p.m., show at 8 p.m.
Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave. in Williamsburg
$31.25
NYC-based jam band Walrus will rock the night away with dancey renditions of Beatles love tunes — because, at the end of the day, “All You Need Is Love.”
Hearts & Soles Valentine’s Day 5K Walk/Run
Friday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Prospect Park Pavilion, 153 East Dr.
$12
Celebrate love and community while getting your heart racing at the Hearts & Soles 5K Walk/Run. Whether you’re walking with a partner or jogging solo, enjoy a scenic route through Prospect Park and connect with others. All participants receive a Valentine’s-themed swag bag, plus fun ribbons — red for couples and green for singles!
Drink and Draw: Valentine’s Day Burlesque
Friday, Feb. 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Pkwy
$35, $20 for members
Grab a drink and your sketchpad for a night of art, burlesque and love at the Brooklyn Museum! Enjoy a tour of “Toward Joy: New Frameworks for American Art,” followed by life drawing of models from the Frolic: Black Burlesque Revue. Stick around for sultry burlesque performances while sipping on a specialty drink.
Cozy Worldwide: R&B Valentine’s Party
Saturday, Feb. 15, Doors at 6 p.m., show at 9 p.m.
Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave. in Williamsburg
$22-$27.50
Dance the night away to 90s, 2000s, and contemporary R&B hits at this nostalgic Valentine’s Day celebration featuring throwback vibes and DJs spinning all night.
Valentine’s Day Panty & Aphrodisiac Lollipop Workshop
Saturday, Feb. 15, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Rue du Paradis, 51 35th St. in Sunset Park
$145
Looking for a fun and cheeky way to celebrate the holiday weekend? In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your own custom lingerie and aphrodisiac-infused lollipops! It’s the perfect opportunity to craft a unique gift or simply enjoy a light-hearted, memorable experience with your partner or friends.
Valentine’s Day Perfume Workshop: Aphrodisiacs & Love Potions
Saturday, Feb. 15, 3-5 p.m.
Bios Apothecary, Industry City, 67 35th St., Building 5 in Sunset Park
$120
Dive into the world of botanical perfumery and create a signature love potion using aphrodisiac ingredients. Enjoy complimentary red wine and chocolates while crafting your own custom fragrance.
The post From axes to aphrodisiacs: Where to celebrate Valentine’s Day (or Galentine’s Day) in Brooklyn first appeared on The Ocean Avenue News – oceanavenuenews.com.
Patel Does Not HOLD BACK! #shorts #kashpatel #fbi #fbidirector https://t.co/4kCI0ycnQn via @YouTube
— Bill Gorman (@BillGorman44589) February 11, 2025
A collection of topical political cartoons from various artists curated by the Brooklyn Eagle editorial staff.
The post Cartoon Sketchbook: February 11 appeared first on Brooklyn Eagle.
The post Cartoon Sketchbook: February 11 first appeared on The Ocean Avenue News – oceanavenuenews.com.
