Meet Indian-origin Kashyap 'Kash' Patel, who could be Donald Trump's likely pick for CIA Chief

Following Donald Trump's recent election victory, Kashyap 'Kash' Patel, an Indian-American lawyer and staunch Trump supporter, is being considered for a prominent role in the upcoming administration, specifically as the director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). During Trump's first term, Patel was poised to be named deputy director of the CIA in the final weeks of his presidency, but that appointment did not materialize due to pressure from White House officials.

Background and Early Life

Patel, who has Gujarati roots, was born in 1980 and raised in Garden City, New York. His family has a history that traces back to East Africa; his father fled Uganda during Idi Amin's regime in the 1970s. Growing up in a Hindu household, Patel's senior yearbook quote reflected his values: "Racism is man's gravest threat - the maximum of hatred for a minimum reason." He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond before earning his law degree and a Certificate in International Law from University College London.

Patel's career began as a public defender in Miami, where he handled complex cases involving murder, drug trafficking, and financial crimes. He later transitioned to roles within the defense and intelligence sectors, serving as Chief of Staff to Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller. As Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council, he played a crucial role in executing several of Trump's key priorities, including the elimination of high-profile ISIS and al-Qaeda leaders.

He also made headlines for his involvement in investigating Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election while working for the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. His work led to the controversial "Nunes Memo," which questioned the FBI's handling of surveillance during its investigation into Trump's campaign.

Patel is often described as someone who will go to great lengths for Trump. His rapid rise within the Trump administration began when he joined in 2019 as a 40-year-old lawyer. At a recent gathering of young Republicans, Trump encouraged Patel by saying, "Get ready, Kash. Get ready," indicating his potential future role.

While Patel's appointment as CIA director would require Senate confirmation—something that may be easier now that Republicans hold a majority—it is not guaranteed. If he does not secure this position, there are indications that he could be appointed to the National Security Council instead.