Attorney General Anne Lopez, along with a coalition of 20 attorneys general, has called for further questioning of Kash Patel, the nominee for FBI Director. In a letter addressed to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley, they urge the Senate to demand answers from Patel regarding reports of politically motivated firings within the FBI and efforts to list agents involved in investigations related to the January 6 Capitol riots.
The letter highlights concerns over recent news that more than a dozen high-ranking FBI officials were dismissed. It also mentions allegations that acting deputy attorney general Emil Bove directed staff to compile a list of those involved in January 6 investigations. The attorneys general describe this as "a purge of FBI employees."
They stress that before any confirmation vote takes place, it is crucial for Senators to understand what Patel intends to do with the compiled list. They warn that removing over 6,000 agents could have severe impacts on public safety across the nation.
Attorney General Lopez emphasized Hawai‘i's reliance on the FBI for law enforcement operations. She stated, “The FBI plays a substantial role in keeping the people of Hawaiʻi safe,” noting their collaboration on issues such as public corruption and drug trafficking.
The letter also criticizes broader actions by President Trump’s administration against law enforcement. It references dismissals of United States Attorneys and pardons granted to rioters involved in January 6 events.
Lopez asserts that Congress must take action to protect public safety and hold the administration accountable. She calls for Patel to answer questions about these issues before his confirmation proceeds.
Joining Hawai‘i are attorneys general from states including Arizona, California, New York, and Washington.