In a surprising reshuffle within federal law enforcement, Kash Patel has been relieved of his duties as acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The position has now been filled by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, a move that has raised eyebrows due to its unconventional nature. This transition, which was not publicly announced, has been characterized by Axios as an "unusual move to place a civilian military leader in charge of a federal law enforcement agency." Driscoll will maintain his responsibilities as Army Secretary while assuming leadership of the ATF.
According to Western Journal, the ATF confirmed this leadership change, stating, "ATF can confirm the change in leadership to Acting Director Daniel Driscoll." Despite the shift, a Justice Department official clarified that the decision was unrelated to Patel's performance at the FBI. White House representative Harrison Fields elaborated, "Director Kash Patel was briefly designated ATF Director while awaiting Senate confirmations a standard, short-term move. Dozens of similar re-designations have occurred across the federal government."
Fields further emphasized Patel's continued success at the FBI, noting, "Director Patel is now excelling in his role at the FBI and delivering outstanding results."
This development occurs amid discussions within the Justice Department about the potential merger of the ATF with the Drug Enforcement Administration, a move aimed at enhancing operational efficiencies. The New York Times reported that the decision to transition Patel out of the ATF role followed his February confirmation to lead the FBI. Driscoll's appointment was influenced by his status as a Senate-confirmed appointee, and his close ties to Vice President J.D. Vance were also noted.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has expressed approval of this leadership change. Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel, remarked, "President Trumps decision to appoint Acting Director Driscoll is indicative of his resolve to bring reform to the ATF and protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens and the industry that makes it possible to exercise those rights."
Keane also acknowledged Patel's interim leadership, stating, "NSSF is deeply appreciative of FBI Director Kash Patels service to lead the ATF as Acting Director for nearly two months in his interim role and the recognition, along with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, that the ATF was weaponized by the previous administration to carry out a radical gun control agenda."
The firearm industry remains optimistic about Driscoll's appointment, with Keane concluding, "The firearm industry is confident that President Trumps appointment of Acting Director Driscoll to lead the ATF will return the bureau to its proper role as a law enforcement agency laser focused on combatting violent crime and illegal firearms trafficking, and to act as a non-partisan regulator of the firearm industry."
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