FBI Director Kash Patel expressed his anger after a SWAT team, which he assigned to provide security for his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, left her during her performance of the national anthem at a National Rifle Association (NRA) convention in Atlanta. The incident occurred in late April 2023 at the Georgia World Congress Center.
Patel had arranged for a SWAT team to shadow Wilkins, a 27-year-old country singer, due to credible death threats she had received. The FBI confirmed earlier this year that Wilkins had faced “hundreds of credible death threats” linked to her relationship with Patel, who has been dating her for three years. “Out of respect for her safety, we will not be providing additional details,” stated the FBI.
During Wilkins’ performance at the NRA event, the team left prematurely after conducting initial safety checks, leading Patel to confront the agents upon learning they had abandoned her. Details of this confrontation were reported by The Daily Mail.
The decision to provide Wilkins with a dedicated security detail sparked controversy, as it is uncommon for partners of agency heads to receive such protection. Criticism intensified with allegations from former FBI agent Kyle Seraphin, now a conservative podcaster, who accused Patel of misusing government resources to be with Wilkins during the government shutdown.
Patel defended Wilkins against the backlash on X, stating, “The disgustingly baseless attacks against Alexis — a true patriot and the woman I’m proud to call my partner in life — are beyond pathetic.” He praised her as a “rock-solid conservative” and a “country music sensation,” expressing gratitude for her presence in his life.
The incident highlights the complexities surrounding security measures for public figures and their families, particularly when they are involved in high-profile positions. As the situation develops, it raises questions about the balance between personal relationships and professional responsibilities within government agencies.
