Meanwhile, the FBI is seeing a surge in job applications under Patel’s leadership. In March, over 5,500 people applied to become FBI agents, the highest number in nearly a decade. FBI officials attribute the spike to Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino’s push to restore public trust and boost recruitment.
Patel’s efforts have included a new recruitment video highlighting the agency’s mission and elite teams. His confirmation testimony emphasized rebuilding faith in the bureau, noting that only 40% of Americans view the FBI favorably. His team says the response shows Americans are inspired by a renewed vision for the agency.
