Newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel is set to become the acting head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a Justice Department official confirmed on Saturday. Patel will take charge of two of the Justice Department’s largest agencies in a rare dual leadership arrangement. The ATF has long been criticised by conservatives for its role in gun regulation.
ATF, which has approximately 5,500 employees, is responsible for enforcing federal firearm, explosives, and arson laws. The agency oversees firearm dealer licensing, traces guns used in crimes, and analyses intelligence related to shooting investigations. Under the Biden administration, ATF introduced new regulations aimed at reducing ghost guns and expanding background checks for gun buyers outside traditional stores. However, conservatives have pushed to limit the agency’s authority, with some calling for its dissolution.
Patel’s expected appointment follows Attorney General Pam Bondi’s recent decision to fire ATF’s top lawyer, Pamela Hicks. Bondi accused the agency of unfairly targeting gun owners, while Hicks, who served over two decades in the Justice Department, described her role as ATF chief counsel as an honour.
Gun rights advocates applaud move
Gun control groups have expressed concerns over Patel’s leadership, with the Brady Campaign labelling him a “gun rights extremist.” In contrast, Gun Owners of America praised his confirmation as FBI director, calling it a victory for gun rights advocates.
(With AP inputs)