FBI Director Kash Patel has ignited a fresh wave of criticism over his use of taxpayer resources after being photographed enjoying the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend, just as scrutiny intensifies over his spending on personal trips and security for his girlfriend.
Grand Prix Appearance Amid Spending Questions
On Saturday, 23 November 2025, Patel was pictured in a life-size pink Lego Cadillac alongside Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The senior Trump administration officials also walked the red carpet with Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali before the race.
While it was not confirmed how the officials travelled to the event, the images prompted immediate backlash given Patel's reported history of utilising public funds for personal benefit. Critics were quick to highlight previous incidents, including the use of an FBI SWAT team to protect his girlfriend, country music star Alexis Wilkins.
Pattern of Controversial Expenditure
According to a New York Times report, Patel's controversial use of resources extends beyond personal security. He has reportedly used a government jet for personal travel, including golf trips and a holiday with friends to a private resort in Scotland.
The assignment of elite SWAT agents to protect Wilkins has drawn particular ire, even from conservative circles. Grace Chong, an influencer working for Trump ally Stephen Bannon, questioned the decision on social media, asking, "Is she considered Kash’s spouse?... if not then why are we paying for this?"
Official sources speaking anonymously noted that while Patel's own security detail would extend to Wilkins when they travel together, assigning her a dedicated SWAT team is highly unusual. These agents are highly specialised but do not receive extensive VIP protection training, making their deployment for this purpose a questionable choice.
Mounting Criticism and Official Response
The controversy has drawn condemnation from former FBI agents. Christopher O’Leary, a former senior FBI agent, stated unequivocally to MS NOW, "There is no legitimate justification for this. This is a clear abuse of position and misuse of government resources."
Patel defended his actions in a fiery social media post, claiming his girlfriend had "done more for this nation than most will in ten lifetimes." He raged against the "disgustingly baseless attacks," stating that his "love of family will always be my cornerstone."
This is not the first spending controversy for Patel. It was previously revealed that he used the FBI's $60 million government plane to fly to a "date night" in Pennsylvania to watch Wilkins perform the national anthem. While the FBI director is required to use a government jet for travel, they must reimburse the government for personal use. It remains unclear if the Las Vegas trip was personal or professional.
The scandal also touches Patel's colleague, Kristi Noem. Her department faces questions after purchasing two Gulfstream G700 luxury jets for top officials in a deal worth about $172 million. A DHS spokesperson defended the purchase as "a matter of safety," citing that the existing jet was over 20 years old.
