FBI Director Kash Patel is moving forward with a plan to shift 1,500 employees out of Washington, D.C., marking one of his first major decisions after taking office.
Patel, who was confirmed by the Senate in a 51-49 vote, has directed that 1,000 staff members be reassigned to FBI field offices across the country. Another 500 will be sent to Huntsville, Alabama, where the FBI has an expanding facility at Redstone Arsenal.
BREAKING: FBI Director Kash Patel just ordered a major redeployment of FBI agents.
Approximately 1,000 agents from the Bureau's Washington, D.C. headquarters will be moved to field offices nationwide, and 500 will go to Huntsville, Alabama.
Today is only his first day in… pic.twitter.com/wnIrkalxPG
— George (@BehizyTweets) February 21, 2025
At his swearing-in ceremony, Patel thanked President Donald Trump for his support and pledged to restore trust in the bureau. Trump praised Patel’s leadership, predicting that he would be the “best ever” in the role.
FBI Headquarters right before Kash arrives. pic.twitter.com/c2t54xAQ2E
— Gain of Fauci (@DschlopesIsBack) February 20, 2025
The FBI has faced mounting criticism over its involvement in politically charged investigations, including the Trump-Russia probe and its role in the events of Jan. 6, 2021. Patel has pledged to shift the agency’s focus back to traditional crime-fighting efforts.
Kash Drops First Huge Bomb on FBI, Looks Like DC Elites Are Packing Bags for Alabama – Report: This would be a nightmare scenario for Bureau employees who are more concerned with social climbing and politicking than with solving crimes. https://t.co/MRhAMfM7I5 pic.twitter.com/xrKrW0k0sb
— The Western Journal (@WestJournalism) February 22, 2025
Democrats have expressed concerns about Patel’s appointment, accusing him of being too closely aligned with Trump. During his confirmation hearing, Patel dismissed these claims and vowed to uphold the Constitution.
The FBI has maintained a presence in Huntsville for decades, with more than 1,300 employees currently stationed there. Patel’s relocation order is expected to further expand the facility’s role in agency operations.
