Kash Patel: “The man who would do anything for Trump”

US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed his loyalist Kashyap “Kash” Patel as head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). With this appointment, Patel becomes the second Indian-American to join his cabinet.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that Indian-American Kash, under the leadership of esteemed Attorney General Pam Bondi, will work to restore loyalty, bravery and integrity to the FBI. “I am proud to announce that Kashyap ‘Kash’ Patel will serve as the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Kash is an exceptional lawyer, investigator and America First advocate who has dedicated his career to exposing corruption, pursuing justice and protecting the American people.
“He played a critical role in exposing the ‘Russia, Russia, Russia’ hoax and consistently stood up for truth, accountability and the Constitution. Kash provided notable service during my first term, holding positions such as chief of staff at the Department of Defense, deputy director of national intelligence and senior director for counterterrorism at the National Security Council,” Trump said in his post.
Kash Patel‘s views on global and national issues are characterized by their sharp divergence from those of the US establishment and mainstream media. Patel, an Indian-American and Trump loyalist, has been vocal in his support for the Ram temple in Ayodhya, citing historical significance that he says has been ignored in Western narratives. His comments challenge what he calls a “disinformation campaign” targeting India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the dedication of the Ram Temple, the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) raised concerns, telling Voice of America it was “troubled” by the construction. Similarly, the New York Times called it “A Triumph on the Road to a Hindu India” and CNN reported, “Ayodhya Ram Mandir: India’s Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Hindu temple on ruined site of Babri mosque.” Patel criticized these reports and accused the US media of focusing exclusively on the last 50 years while neglecting the temple’s historical roots.

Patel explained in February: “Whether you are Hindu or Muslim or not, there was a Hindu temple there in 1500 to one of the main gods of the Hindu pantheon that was overthrown and for 500 years they have been trying to get it back.” The Washington institutions have conveniently forgotten this part of history.” He further pointed out that comparisons between Trump and Modi by the Washington elite contributed to this narrative, as both leaders were often portrayed as populist disruptors would.

Trump’s Hindu Outreach

Trump has consistently sought to deepen ties with Hindu-Americans by condemning violence against Hindus in Bangladesh and opposing laws that target their community. During Diwali, Trump vowed to protect Hindu Americans from what he called the “radical left’s anti-religious agenda,” reaffirming his alliance with India and Modi.
Trump’s reach aligns with Patel’s broader perspective US-India relations. Patel highlights shared challenges such as terrorism and countering China’s influence, while criticizing Biden’s perceived neglect of the U.S.-India technology partnership. He also praised Trump’s unpredictability in foreign policy, describing it as a strategic advantage that deters adversaries such as Iran and North Korea.

Patel’s views on key issues

• US-India Relations: Advocates a strong alliance and commends Trump and Modi for promoting mutual respect and shared goals.
• China strategy: Claims that Trump’s policies have countered China’s regional and global ambitions more effectively than Biden’s.
• Immigration: Supports secure borders while maintaining lawful immigration to balance economic and security needs.
• Deep state and justice system: Claims a two-tier system biased against conservatives, echoing Trump’s criticism of U.S. institutions.
• New technologies: Highlights U.S.-India collaboration on AI and quantum computing as critical to national security.

Patel on Trump and Modi: A strategic alliance

Patel views Trump as a leader who puts American interests first while valuing global partnerships, particularly with India. He contrasts this with the Biden administration’s approach and argues that Trump’s policies are more effective in addressing common global challenges. Patel also praises Trump for respecting Modi’s leadership and focusing on strategic direction over domestic politics.