Kash Patel, former Trump official and FBI director candidate, clashed with Senator Adam Schiff during a Senate hearing. Schiff questioned Patel about a song by January 6 inmates featuring Trump reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Patel firmly stated, “Senator, what I said was I didn’t do the recording.” When Schiff played a podcast clip suggesting Patel’s involvement, Patel clarified, “That’s why it says ‘we’ as you highlighted.” Schiff pressed, asking if Patel was part of the “we.” Patel responded, “Not in every instance.”

Schiff accused Patel of endorsing the song without vetting those involved. Patel emphasized his focus on fundraising for families in need, asserting he didn’t record the song or profit from it.

When Schiff pointed to Capitol Police in the room, demanding Patel explain his support for those convicted of assaulting officers, Patel called the claims false and reaffirmed his long-standing support for law enforcement.

Despite Schiff’s aggressive questioning, Patel stayed composed. The hearing ended with law enforcement groups representing over 300,000 officers submitting letters supporting Patel’s nomination. Patel also blamed January 6 security lapses on Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, citing rejected National Guard requests.