Overview
- MS NOW reported that Trump and aides have weighed removing Patel and discussed co–deputy director Andrew Bailey as a possible successor, citing three unnamed sources.
- Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called the story 'completely made up' and posted an Oval Office photo of Trump and Patel taken as the report published.
- Asked aboard Air Force One whether he planned to replace Patel, Trump said, 'No, he’s doing a great job.'
- MS NOW says it stands by its reporting, as Patel faces scrutiny over alleged use of government aircraft and an FBI security detail tied to his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, as previously detailed by major outlets.
- No personnel change has been announced, though some officials are reported to be frustrated with Patel’s conduct, and reporters noted Bailey’s timing requirements under federal vacancies rules if a nomination were pursued.