Kash Patel Under Fire: Private Jet, $50K VIP Suite and a Controversial Pearl Harbor Snorkel

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News (2 / 1) 16.05.2026 21:55 / Olga

Agents on overtime to provide security

The Times investigation also alleges the plane’s crew and a security detail waited on overtime for the concert to end. It further reports Patel reassigned personnel to provide protection for Wilkins, including four SWAT agents and vehicles, with estimated taxpayer costs rising toward about $1 million a year when overtime and other expenses are counted.

Pearl Harbor trip called into question

Patel is also reported to have joined a VIP snorkel around the wreckage of the USS Arizona, escorted by military personnel and swimming nearby for roughly 30 minutes, according to the Navy. Critics described the excursion as disrespectful to the site’s history, while an FBI spokesperson said the visit was part of official Indo-Pacific engagements hosted by the IndoPacom Commander in August and tied to national security meetings.