Former Trump adviser Kash Patel claimed that the judge in the president-elect's hush money case doesn't have the "wherewithal" to undo the conviction. New York County Supreme Court Judge Juan Merchan will soon decide whether Trump's 34 felony counts of ...

There was speculation that Indian-origin former Republican House staffer Kashyap 'Kash' Patel might be appointed as CIA chief, but Trump has ultimately selected Ratcliffe for the role.

Former Department of Defense official Kash Patel is reportedly under consideration for key national security roles within the Trump administration, including the powerful position of CIA director. Known for his loyalty

Patel’s career began as a public defender in Miami, where he spent nearly nine years handling high-stakes criminal cases, including murder, drug trafficking, and financial crimes.

Ratcliffe served as the nation's top spy from late May 2020 until Trump left office in January 2021. More recently, he was co-chair of the Center for American Security, a think tank advocating Trump positions, and advised the former Republican president on national security policy during his 2024 campaign.

John Ratcliffe, a close ally of Trump, served as director of national intelligence at the end of his first term.

Several Trump allies have batted for Patel to be the next CIA Director. However, the appointment can only be finalized with Senate confirmation – somewhat simplified after Republicans won a majority on Tuesday. Patel is likely to be appointed as a member of the National Security Council, if he fails to secure the Senate vote.

John Ratcliffe, who is considered one of the most conservative Republicans, was elected to Congress in 2014. He is a fierce Trump loyalist and defended him in 2019 during the House’s first impeachment proceedings.