Trump’s attack on Kash Patel goes viral amid FBI controversy: ‘If you could get a little more publicity…’

Speaking at a gathering of Republican allies and guests at the President’s Rose Garden Club on Monday, Trump joked about Patel’s growing public profile. “FBI Director Kash Patel. Is he getting enough publicity?” Trump said, according to the US “Mirror” report.

“It would be great if you could get more publicity…” the president added, then laughed.

The report, citing unnamed officials, said Patel’s late-night gatherings allegedly forced aides to reschedule early-morning meetings. It also claimed his security staff had sought to “sabotage the device” after being unable to get a response from behind a locked door.

Also read: What charges does Wang Ailin face? Kash Patel speaks after Acadia mayor accused of being Chinese foreign agent

Patel has denied the accusations and filed a reported $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic.

This comes after a video went viral showing Patel drinking beers with the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team in Milan.

During the hearing, Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen pressed Patel on claims about his drinking habits and asked him whether he would undergo an audit-style test to identify potential alcohol problems among service members.

Also read: ‘Why was Kash Patel left out of Cole Allen’s list?’ Internet explodes after manifesto revealed, mobile phone scrolling video

The exchange between the two sides became heated.

Patel fired back, accusing Van Hollen of wasting taxpayer money, saying: “The only person in El Salvador spending taxpayer money drinking margaritas with a convicted gang-rapist is you.”

The two interrupted each other several times during the tense confrontation, and related videos circulated online.

Despite the growing controversy, the White House has publicly defended Patel. “The president has full confidence in his administration,” the White House said in a statement.