In his statement, Patel strongly defended his integrity against false accusations and mischaracterizations, emphasizing his commitment to the Constitution and law enforcement. He highlighted his history of supporting the FBI and his endorsement by over 300,000 law enforcement officers for the position of FBI Director. Patel rejected claims that he prioritized political bias over the Constitution, calling such accusations grotesque and unfair.

He also addressed criticisms of his past comments, claiming they were taken out of context for political gain. Patel stressed the need for a de-politicized FBI that adheres strictly to constitutional principles and justice. He reinforced his respect for law enforcement, stating that violence against officers should never be tolerated and that such acts must be fully prosecuted. Patel also dismissed accusations of promoting conspiracy theories like QAnon, asserting his commitment to rejecting baseless claims.

Patel’s opening statement outlined his vision for the FBI, focusing on justice, fairness, and upholding the Constitution. He emphasized the importance of tackling violent crime and restoring public trust through transparency and constitutional oversight from Congress. His plan includes empowering good police officers and ensuring safety in communities. Patel promised to work closely with the FBI, valuing the dedication of its members and vowing to have their backs, as they do for the American people.