Senator Chuck Grassley, head of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has sharply criticized Democratic colleagues for seeking a second confirmation hearing for President Trump's FBI director nominee, Kash Patel. Grassley labeled the move a "delaying tactic" aimed at obstructing Patel's appointment. In a statement, Grassley defended Patel, highlighting his extensive testimony, which included over five hours before the committee and the disclosure of thousands of pages of documents and written responses. He dismissed Democratic concerns as "baseless" attempts to misrepresent Patel and argued against holding a nominee accountable for government actions predating their service within an agency.

Sen. Chuck Grassley at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 24, 2024. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Grassley reiterated his intention to proceed with a confirmation vote as early as next week. This firm stance follows a letter from the committee's ranking Democrat, Senator Dick Durbin, urging a postponement. Durbin cited alleged inconsistencies in Patel's testimony and recent personnel changes within the FBI as reasons for further scrutiny. The letter, endorsed by all committee Democrats, requested a second hearing to address these concerns and demanded access to a specific volume of former special counsel Jack Smith's report related to Patel.

Pam Bondi, President Donald Trump's choice to lead the Justice Department, appears before the Senate Judiciary Committee. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)

This clash coincides with two lawsuits filed by anonymous FBI agents seeking to prevent the public release of their identities in connection with the January 6th investigations. A list of agents involved had been shared with DOJ leadership. The agents expressed concerns about potential threats and retaliation. Lawyers for the FBI Agents Association, representing thousands of active and retired agents, described the request for names as a possible precursor to adverse actions or dismissals within the bureau.

Sen. Dick Durbin is ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. (Ting Shen/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

While there are currently no confirmed plans for large-scale dismissals or disciplinary measures, a retired FBI agent, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the January 6th investigation followed established procedures and that legal violations were proven in court. The agent also noted that the acting director and deputy director of the FBI remain in their positions.