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A pressing question arose during the meeting regarding Patel's ability to withstand potential pressure from Trump. The congressman acknowledged the difficulties involved in articulating dissent to a sitting president while maintaining the law’s integrity. Trust in cabinet officials, like the Attorney General, is crucial for governance—officials must ensure truthful representations, regardless of political pressures.
Concerns were also raised about specific actions Patel proposed should he assume office, such as closing the FBI headquarters and dismissing certain agents. While the congressman interpreted these statements as hyperbolic, he anticipated a candid discussion on these topics should Patel be confirmed.
Accountability and Reforms