A MSNBC columnist and former FBI official made what has been described as a “malicious, false and defamatory statement” about Kash Patel, as indicated in a recent lawsuit filed against him. The columnist, Frank Figliuzzi, had criticized President Donald Trump’s appointment of Patel to lead the FBI, suggesting that Patel’s commitment could be in question if he fails to perform his duties.
In a segment on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Figliuzzi remarked, “Well, he’s reportedly visible in far more nightclubs than he was on the seventh floor of Hoover,” referring to Patel’s supposed social activities. He added, “This is both a blessing and a curse… If he wasn’t plugged in, things could be bad. But he’s making sure the agents can do things, so I don’t know where this is heading.” Figliuzzi’s comments seem to imply a lack of confidence in Patel’s capabilities.
A few days post the segment, the show’s co-host issued a retraction of Figliuzzi’s statement, stating, “This was false. We didn’t confirm that claim.” This retraction, however, didn’t satisfy Patel, who proceeded to file a lawsuit aimed at restoring his reputation.
The legal documents claim that Figliuzzi, acting as a partisan commentator, sensationalized the situation for personal gain by fabricating statements, using qualifiers like “reportedly” to deflect responsibility for his claims.
Interestingly, it has also been established that Patel has not set foot in any nightclub since taking on the role of FBI director.
No comments have been received from either Figliuzzi or a representative of Patel regarding the situation.
Additionally, Figliuzzi previously suggested a potential link between Colorado Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert, former Fox host Tucker Carlson, and a violent incident linked to Club Q, a Colorado Springs LGBT venue, although law enforcement later clarified the club was chosen as a last-minute target.
