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

President Donald Trump is expected to name Kash Patel as the acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), according to sources familiar with the matter.

Patel, who currently serves as the chief of staff to Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller, is a controversial figure in the Trump administration. He previously worked as a senior official on the National Security Council and was a key figure in the Republican-led investigation into the FBI’s handling of the Russia probe.

His potential appointment as the head of the ATF has raised concerns among gun control advocates, who fear that he may not prioritize enforcing existing gun laws or push for stricter regulations on firearms.

However, supporters of Patel argue that his experience in national security and law enforcement makes him well-equipped to lead the ATF. They believe that his background in counterterrorism and intelligence will help him address the challenges facing the agency, such as combating gun trafficking and preventing mass shootings.

If appointed, Patel would be taking over the ATF at a time when the agency is facing increased scrutiny and criticism. The ATF has been criticized for its handling of gun violence and its enforcement of federal firearms laws.

Some experts believe that Patel’s appointment could signal a shift in the agency’s priorities and policies. They argue that his strong stance on national security issues may lead to a more aggressive approach to gun crime and illegal firearms trafficking.

However, others worry that Patel’s appointment could further politicize the ATF and undermine its independence as a law enforcement agency. They fear that his close ties to the Trump administration may compromise the agency’s ability to effectively regulate the firearms industry and protect public safety.

It remains to be seen how Patel will approach his potential new role as acting director of the ATF. As the debate over gun control continues to intensify in the United States, his appointment is likely to draw further attention and scrutiny from both supporters and critics of the Trump administration.