FBI director defends hiring changes for trafficking victims

On September 15, 2026, FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in Washington, D.C., defending changes to the bureau's hiring standards. The changes, implemented in June, removed automatic disqualification for applicants with histories involving prostitution, human trafficking, or bestiality. Patel argued the revisions allow consideration of trafficking victims, not voluntary offenders. Senator John Kennedy questioned Patel about the changes, particularly regarding bestiality. The hearing also addressed FBI recruitment and retention issues, with Democrats noting the loss of over 1,100 special agents in 2025. Patel maintained that the policy language was drafted before his tenure and that the FBI continues to uphold rigorous standards.