Kash Patel addresses allegations of workplace intoxication

FBI Director Kash Patel addressed a ongoing controversy during a press conference, responding to reports from The Atlantic that alleged his work performance has suffered due to intoxication. While Patel acknowledged he is not a teetotaler, he stated, "I can say unequivocally that I never listen to the fake news mafia and when they get louder, it just means I’m doing my job."

Patel emphasized his commitment to his role, stating, "I’ve never been intoxicated on the job, and that is why we filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit. And any one of you that wants to participate, bring it on."

Addressing his work habits, Patel claimed he is the first to arrive at the office and the last to leave. He also referenced a viral video from February showing him celebrating with the US Olympic Men's Hockey team in a locker room after their gold medal victory in Milan, Italy. Patel defended the act as a celebration with friends.

During the press conference, an NBC News reporter questioned Patel about a specific report from The Atlantic claiming he had panicked after being locked out of his computer systems, fearing he had been fired. Patel dismissed the report, stating, "The problem with you and your baseless reporting is that is an absolute lie. It was never said. It never happened. And I will serve in this administration as long as the president and the attorney general want me to do so."