Allegations levelled against Kash Patel for using govt funds for personal trip with girlfriend

US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel is facing criticism after reports claimed he used government resources during personal trips with his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins.

According to reports, Patel traveled from Washington to Philadelphia using an FBI Gulfstream V jet. The trip was linked to a country music concert featuring ‘George Strait and Chris Stapleton’. Reports said the private concert suite used during the event cost between $35,000 and $50,000.

The reports also claimed FBI flight crew members and security staff worked overtime during the trip. Patel did not personally comment on the allegations. However, the FBI said Wilkins attended the event as a guest of the performers.

The controversy follows earlier criticism over Patel’s visit to ‘Pearl Harbor’ in Hawaii during July and August 2025. Patel and Wilkins also went snorkeling near the USS Arizona Memorial, as per reports. FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson denied the claims and said the visit was part of an official trip connected to the US Indo-Pacific Command.

Meanwhile, Patel was also seen in Milan, Italy, during the Winter Olympics, where a video showed him celebrating with members of the US men’s hockey team. The New York Times report triggered political debate in the United States, with critics questioning whether government aircraft and security arrangements were used for personal activities. Opposition leaders and some former officials demanded greater transparency regarding official travel expenses and use of FBI resources.

Defending himself during a Department of Justice press conference, Patel said the allegations were politically motivated and false. He said he pays his personal expenses himself and takes fewer holidays than previous FBI directors. Patel also said he is “the first in the office and the last to leave”.