Van Hollen Posts AUDIT Results, Presses Patel to Match Them After $250 Million Suit
Updated
Updated · ms.now · May 13
Van Hollen Posts AUDIT Results, Presses Patel to Match Them After $250 Million Suit
9 articles · Updated · ms.now · May 13
Chris Van Hollen posted his Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test results on X a day after FBI Director Kash Patel said he would take the screening only if the senator did it "side by side."
The challenge followed a heated Senate Appropriations exchange in which Van Hollen pressed Patel over The Atlantic's allegations of excessive drinking, unexplained absences and an incident requiring security to enter his home.
Patel denied drinking excessively, said "I do not lie to Congress," and has sued The Atlantic and its reporter for $250 million over the report.
Van Hollen later said Patel "flew off the handle" and was untruthful, arguing the clash raised broader questions about the FBI director's fitness to lead an agency with major public-safety responsibilities.
What are the national security risks when an FBI Director's fitness is publicly questioned?
Can a journalist face a federal probe for reporting on a public official's behavior?
How are top security officials held accountable for conduct if they deny all allegations?