Rep. Lawler explains why he has no reservations about Patel as FBI director

12/1/24 •

Summaries by topic

• English

Rep. Mike Lawler discusses his lack of reservations about Kash Patel's nomination as FBI director, emphasizing the need for reform within the Department of Justice and the FBI. He further addresses the incoming Trump administration's stance on the Middle East, emphasizing the need to secure the release of American hostages held by Hamas, and concludes with an assessment of the challenges facing the new Republican majority in the House, highlighting the need for compromise and collaboration to achieve their goals.

FBI Director Nomination

• 00:00:45 Rep. Lawler expresses no reservations about Kash Patel's nomination as FBI Director, believing Trump campaigned on reforming the FBI and Department of Justice. Patel's experience as a federal prosecutor and in roles like Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense and Deputy Director of the NSA qualifies him. The Congressman believes the goal of reforming the DOJ and FBI is to refocus them on pursuing criminals and restoring public trust.

Middle East Conflict

• 00:04:33 Rep. Lawler discusses the ongoing situation in the Middle East, including the hostage crisis with Hamas and the pressure being placed on them. He sees movement towards a ceasefire due to the incoming Trump administration's stance on Iran and the actions of the Israeli military. He stresses that releasing the hostages and surrendering are the only acceptable paths for Hamas, and the U.S. should utilize maximum pressure to secure their release.

Republican House Majority

• 00:07:05 With a historically small Republican majority in the House, Rep. Lawler acknowledges the potential for any member to hold the government hostage. He highlights the need for the party to prioritize economic, border, energy, and international issues, including tax reform and spending. However, he emphasizes that while members are elected individually, they must work together as a Republican majority to get things done and pass legislation by compromising and working with each other, given the narrow majority.