Senator Susan Collins has pledged to oppose Trump’s FBI director nominee, Kash Patel, setting the stage for a crucial confirmation vote.
Susan Collins Breaks with GOP, Opposes Trump’s FBI Nominee Kash Patel Ahead of Key Vote
Moderate Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine has announced she will not support President Donald Trump’s nominee for FBI director, Kash Patel, citing concerns about his political ties and recent turmoil within the Department of Justice.
Collins Cites Ethical Concerns
In a statement released Thursday, just before a critical procedural vote, Collins pointed to recent resignations of career federal prosecutors who felt pressured to compromise their ethical obligations.
“While I strongly support ensuring all federal employees act ethically and within the law, Mr. Patel’s recent political profile undermines his ability to serve in the apolitical role of Director of the FBI,” Collins stated.
Patel Advances Despite GOP Division
Despite Collins’ opposition, Patel cleared his final procedural hurdle Thursday morning. Key Republicans, including Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), are backing Patel, with Tillis playing a major role in guiding his nomination through the Senate.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) has not officially stated how she will vote but supported the last procedural step, signaling potential approval in the final confirmation.
Narrow Vote Margin Looms
With a full Senate in attendance, Patel can only afford to lose three Republican votes, assuming all Democrats oppose him. A similar dynamic played out with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s nomination, where Collins and Murkowski opposed him alongside former GOP leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), forcing Vice President JD Vance to break the tie.
Collins Faces Political Crossroads
Up for re-election in 2026, Collins remains one of the few Republicans to have won her state while voters backed Joe Biden, benefitting from Maine’s split-ticket voting. Her decision to break with her party on Patel’s nomination could have significant political implications moving forward.
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