- The FBI initiated an investigation into New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson for alleged stalking after she published an article detailing FBI Director Kash Patel's alleged use of bureau personnel to provide his girlfriend with a security detail.
- The New York Times and its executive editor, Joseph Kahn, criticized the FBI's investigation as a "blatant violation of Elizabeth’s First Amendment rights" and a retaliatory attempt to impede journalistic scrutiny.
- Williamson's article highlighted accusations that Patel used a federal SWAT team for his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, and other instances of misusing federal resources, such as an FBI plane for personal trips.
- Patel has faced extensive criticism, including a report by active and retired FBI agents deeming him "in over his head" and a recent The Atlantic article alleging excessive drinking and unexplained absences.
- Patel has filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic and its journalist Sara Fitzpatrick, vehemently denying all accusations and vowing to challenge them in court.
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