Overview
- Reuters reports the FBI intends to drop a panel interview and writing assessment for current support employees seeking to become special agents.
- Under the reported plan, internal candidates who pass an online exam could proceed directly to new‑agent training at Quantico, according to retired agent Jeff Crocker and another source.
- An FBI spokesperson said the bureau is not lowering standards, citing continued requirements for a division leader’s recommendation and successful completion of Quantico.
- The reported change would apply only to existing FBI employees in administrative roles, not to all special agent applicants.
- Director Kash Patel has set an internal goal to hire about 700 new agents this year, and MS NOW noted it had not independently verified Reuters’ reporting, which critics like Crocker argue would dilute vetting.