Kash Patel forgets Charleston church shooter details during congressional hearing

On September 16, 2025, in the wake of increasing political violence, FBI Director Kash Patel appeared before the House Judiciary Committee for the second day of congressional hearings. The hearings were marked by tense exchanges, particularly as Patel faced tough questions about his leadership of the FBI. During the session, Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove asked Patel whether he acknowledged the mass shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015, which resulted in the deaths of nine Black parishioners. Patel's failure to remember key details of the incident led to further scrutiny of his leadership capabilities and raised concerns about his awareness of past acts of political violence. This particular session followed a series of challenging questions Patel had faced the previous day during his testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Lawmakers queried him about various sensitive issues, including the FBI's handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files and alleged reassignments of agents that have been interpreted as politically motivated. Patel defended his actions as necessary adjustments due to rising crime rates but faced accusations of contributing to chaos within the agency. Representative Jamie Raskin described Patel's tenure as bringing “destruction” and “danger” to the country. The hearings come at a time of heightened political tension and concern over domestic terrorism, particularly in light of recent violent incidents, including the shooting of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. As these hearings unfold, they reflect the broader political climate in which agencies such as the FBI operate and the intense scrutiny they face from both sides of the political aisle. Amidst these challenges, Patel's responses to inquiries have been a focal point, prompting discussions on the accountability and effectiveness of federal law enforcement agencies in addressing critical issues effectively. Moreover, the questioning pointed to a larger challenge facing the FBI as it navigates internal criticisms and external pressures. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of historical awareness in the fight against domestic extremism, highlighting that Patel's struggle to articulate details about key incidents, such as the Charleston church shooting, raises questions about his leadership and the agency's overall priorities. The committee's probing reflects an urgent call for clarity and action from the FBI, as the complications surrounding incidents of political violence become increasingly intertwined with the ongoing legislative discourse.