1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing as your constituent deeply concerned about recent reporting that FBI Director Kash Patel has used taxpayer-funded resources for personal travel — including visits to his girlfriend and trips to an expensive hunting ranch — at a time when many Americans are worried about government waste. I demand a full explanation and accountability from Congress. Here are the key facts, drawn from reliable media outlets: 1. Use of FBI Jet for Personal Travel • Patel reportedly flew on a Department of Justice–registered Gulfstream (an FBI-used jet) to attend a wrestling event in State College, Pennsylvania, where his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins, performed. • On that same trip, flight records show the jet flew from State College to Nashville, where Wilkins lives. • Court and agency documents indicate that while he reimburses for personal travel at a commercial rate, the larger costs — such as fuel and landing fees — are still borne by taxpayers. 2. Hunting Ranch Trip During Government Shutdown • According to the Wall Street Journal and other sources, Patel visited the Boondoggle Ranch, a private and upscale hunting resort in Texas owned by a political donor. • The jet remained on site for multiple days, even while parts of the government (including FBI staff) were impacted by a shutdown. 3. Past Hypocrisy and Ethical Concerns • Before becoming FBI Director, Patel heavily criticized his predecessor, Christopher Wray, for “jetting off … on taxpayer dollars.” • Now, he is doing much of the same — raising serious questions about misuse of power and whether current policies sufficiently prevent abuse. • Former FBI personnel and watchdogs have expressed concern about whether these trips meet the standard of necessity and whether proper reimbursements cover all relevant costs. These concerns are not just about optics; they go to the heart of public trust. When the head of the FBI appears to use his position to subsidize personal relationships and leisure, it undermines the integrity of the institution and raises serious questions: • Are current rules on “required-use” of government aircraft too permissive? • Do reimbursements methodically cover only what is legally required — or are there gaps that allow for exploitation? • Who is overseeing these flights, and what auditing or reporting mechanisms exist to ensure transparency? • During times of financial strain, government shutdowns, or budget cuts, is it appropriate for the director to take extended “personal” trips on a multi-million-dollar asset? Therefore, I respectfully request that you and your colleagues in Congress investigate: 1. All flights taken by Director Patel since he took office, especially those involving personal travel. 2. The total cost of those flights — not just what was reimbursed — including fuel, landing fees, crew, and maintenance overhead. 3. Whether existing policies governing “required-use” travelers (i.e., that certain officials must use government aircraft) are adequate, or whether reform is needed to prevent potential abuse. 4. What oversight mechanisms currently exist (or should exist) to monitor and publicly report non-official use of FBI aircraft. As a taxpayer, I have a right to know that the FBI — a cornerstone of our national security — is being run ethically and efficiently, without misuse of public funds for what amounts to personal vacationing or date-nights. If Congress does not act, it sends the message that such behavior is acceptable, which is deeply troubling. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I urge you to press for answers, reforms, and accountability. I would appreciate a response from your office informing me of any steps you plan to take or how you will raise this issue in Congress.