FBI Director Kash Patel is under fire from both political allies and critics for his handling of the investigation into the Sept. 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. The controversy comes as Patel prepares to testify before Senate and House oversight panels this week.

Patel, nominated earlier this year by President Donald Trump despite having no prior law enforcement experience, drew criticism for continuing with a dinner reservation at New York’s exclusive Rao’s on the night of the killing. He was also faulted for prematurely announcing an arrest on social media, delaying the release of suspect photos, and making public comments about the case that some experts say could jeopardize a future trial.

Former FBI officials and prosecutors called his early declaration of victory “a misstep” that misled the public and broke with agency tradition. Sen. Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, described Patel’s conduct as “amateur hour.” Conservative voices, including activist Christopher Rufo and Laura Loomer, also accused Patel of mismanaging the investigation, with Loomer blasting the $100,000 reward as “embarrassing” compared to higher bounties for international cases.

Questions have also been raised about unsecured crime scenes and lapses in operational security, with reporters gaining access to restricted areas before law enforcement intervened.

Patel has defended his actions, saying the FBI “flexed all resources” to apprehend the suspect and emphasizing that evidence collection was faster than in past high-profile cases. The White House and senior Justice Department officials have stood by Patel, praising his leadership.

The case has fueled bipartisan scrutiny over whether Patel is fit to lead the FBI, with his upcoming testimony expected to intensify debate about law enforcement accountability and political influence.