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FBI Director Kash Patel has filed a defamation lawsuit against former FBI official and MSNBC contributor Frank Figliuzzi, claiming that false and damaging statements were made about his professional conduct.
The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Texas on June 2, centers around comments made by Figliuzzi during a May 2 appearance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe. During the segment, Figliuzzi claimed Patel had been seen in nightclubs more frequently than at FBI headquarters, raising concerns about his level of engagement with bureau responsibilities.
Patel’s legal team contends that the statement was entirely fabricated and made with malicious intent. The complaint asserts, “Since taking office as FBI Director, Director Patel has not spent a single minute in a nightclub,” and accuses Figliuzzi of deliberately spreading misinformation due to personal animosity.
Following the backlash, MSNBC correspondent Jonathan Lemire addressed the situation in a subsequent broadcast, clarifying that the network had no evidence to support Figliuzzi’s claim and that the comment could not be substantiated.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino also weighed in on social media, strongly defending Patel’s work ethic and integrity. In a statement posted to the platform X, Bongino wrote, “The Director is in the office between 10 to 12 hours most days, actively leading meetings with internal teams and international partners.”
He added, “The narrative that Director Patel is disengaged is not only false—it’s being pushed to obstruct reforms and mislead the public.”
Bongino also highlighted recent bureau operations, including efforts targeting illegal immigration and crimes against children. He noted the recent launch of “Operation Restoring Justice,” which led to the arrest of over 700 individuals involved in child exploitation cases.
The legal complaint marks a significant pushback from Patel against what he claims is a coordinated effort to discredit his leadership at the FBI. As the case proceeds, both legal and media communities are watching closely for potential implications surrounding press accountability and the responsibilities of public commentary.
