FBI Director Kash Patel faces criticism after videos showed him partying with Team USA at the Winter Olympics in Italy. The 45-year-old was captured guzzling beer during celebrations following the team's hockey victory, despite FBI claims his trip included official meetings with Italian law enforcement.

Patel's actions contradict his previous statements about FBI resource usage. During confirmation hearings, he emphasized that bureau resources "funded by American taxpayer dollars" would focus on solving crimes, not personal entertainment. Eight former FBI officials reportedly sent the video to media outlets, drawing comparisons to former Director William Sessions.

The controversy arises as the FBI continues to struggle locating missing 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, whose disappearance has stretched over three weeks. Patel used an agency jet for the trip, similar to his previous travels to NHL games and visits with his girlfriend. His 2023 criticism of predecessor Christopher Wray for using a government-funded G5 jet now appears particularly ironic.

Patel defended his presence, posting on X that he was "extremely humbled" when invited into the locker room by the gold medal winners. Despite the backlash, he continued celebrating the team's victory as the FBI faced multiple pressing cases including the investigation into an armed man killed at Mar-a-Lago.