4 sources·Politics

Kash Patel Expected to Lead ATF Following FBI Appointment

Kash Patel, recently confirmed as FBI director, is anticipated to be named acting head of the ATF next week, sources indicate.

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
Balanced
The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.
Subscribe to unlock this story

We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!

Get Started
  1. FBI Director Kash Patel to be named ATF chief

    The ATF, a law enforcement agency housed in the Department of Justice, is responsible for enforcing federal laws regarding the illegal use, sale and trafficking of firearms and explosives, as well as the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products.

    FBI Director Kash Patel to be named ATF chief

    NBC NewsNBC News·2M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. Kash Patel to be named acting ATF chief, sources say

    The Justice Department has faced turmoil over the past several weeks amid scrutiny from the Trump administration.

    Kash Patel to be named acting ATF chief, sources say

    CBS NewsCBS News·2M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. Trump expected to name Kash Patel as acting ATF director: Sources

    The ATF, which is tasked with regulating sales and registrations of firearms across the United States, has long been a target of Republicans over what they argue is government encroachment on Second Amendment rights.

    Trump expected to name Kash Patel as acting ATF director: Sources

    ABC NewsABC News·2M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  1. NBC News
  2. CBS News
  3. ABC News
Updated: Feb 22nd, 2025, 10:18 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Kash Patel, recently sworn in as FBI director, is expected to take on the role of acting head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). His impending appointment follows Attorney General Pam Bondi's dismissal of ATF's general counsel, Pamela Hicks. The move highlights ongoing tensions regarding the ATF's regulation of firearms, which has long been a contentious issue among Republican lawmakers. Patel's strong political ties to Trump and past criticisms of the FBI have drawn scrutiny, particularly regarding his lack of experience in law enforcement agencies.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

No center-leaning sources available for this story.

FAQs

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.
Kash Patel Expected to Lead ATF Following FBI Appointment - Pano News