A New Era in the FBI Under Kash Patel's Leadership: Record Number of Applications in First Month

A New Era in the FBI Under Kash Patel's Leadership: Record Number of Applications in First Month

Washington: In the first month of Kash Patel’s leadership, the FBI has received a record number of new agent applications. A total of 5,577 new agent applications were submitted in March, nearly doubling the monthly average since 2016.

According to Fox News Digital, the previous highest number of applications was in April 2016, with 5,283 applications. In comparison, the monthly average in 2023 was 2,797 applications, and in 2024 it was 3,383 applications.

FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson told Fox News Digital, "Director Patel and Deputy Director (Dan) Bongino have focused on restoring public trust in federal law enforcement and placing emphasis on recruiting new agents. These record-breaking applications clearly indicate that the new FBI is on the right path."

Since January, the FBI has received more than 10,000 new agent applications. In January, the first month of the Trump administration and Patel's nomination and confirmation hearing, the FBI received 4,143 applications—this was the first time since August 2020 that the FBI had received over 4,000 applications.

Patel’s advisor Erica Knight told Fox News Digital, "The record number of FBI job applications in March shows that people are inspired by Kash Patel’s commitment to restoring the agency’s integrity and effectiveness." She also said, "Americans have placed their trust in his leadership, and he is working to rebuild the FBI to keep our communities safe."

During his Senate confirmation hearing, Patel mentioned the "erosion of trust" at the FBI and cited surveys indicating that "only 40% of Americans view the FBI positively." Patel said, "This must change. Public cooperation is essential, and its declining reputation is already affecting recruitment efforts."

In March, Patel released an FBI recruitment video showing the director working with agents in the field and highlighting footage from the hostage rescue team facility. The video ends with the FBI seal and the words: "A renewed mission. A stronger future."

Patel and Bongino have also emphasized the importance of building deeper relationships with local partners. Sources indicated that Patel has instructed his team to offer full support to the families of fallen officers, and Bongino has personally reached out to uniformed officers to thank them for their work.

FBI spokesperson Williamson said, "Our team will continue to recruit the best law enforcement personnel in the country. We hope to see even more brave men and women wanting to join us."