FBI director changes course on White House budget proposal

WASHINGTON

FBI Director Kash Patel said Thursday that he would "work on whatever budget we’re given," reversing his tone a day after saying the Trump administration's budget proposal for the bureau is too low.

According to the recent White House budget proposal, the FBI's budget would be cut by $545 million, and Patel told a House Appropriations subcommittee hearing Wednesday that he wanted $1 billion more than the administration had requested.

"The skinny budget is a proposal, and I’m working through the appropriations process to explain why we need more than what has been proposed," he told lawmakers.

However, appearing at a separate hearing of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday, Patel said: "My view is that we will make and agree with this budget as it stands, and make it work for the operational necessity of the FBI."

"As the head of the FBI, I was simply asking for more funds because I can do more with more money," he added.

On Wednesday, Rep. Rosa DeLauro questioned Patel over her confusion about his rejection of the requested budget.

"What do you need? You need $11.2 billion?" she said.

"Approximately," Patel replied.