Republican Approval of FBI Director Kash Patel Declines Slightly in Quinnipiac Poll
A Quinnipiac University poll released this week shows 67 percent of Republicans approve of Kash Patel's handling of the FBI. The survey of 1,106 registered voters found disapproval at 18 percent, up from 10 percent in September 2025.
NewsweekA Quinnipiac University poll released this week shows Republican approval of FBI Director Kash Patel at 67 percent, down from 70 percent in September 2025. Disapproval among Republicans rose to 18 percent from 10 percent over the same period. 7 percentage points. Among all registered voters, 30 percent approved of Patel's performance while 56 percent disapproved.
Patel recorded the lowest approval rating among senior Trump administration officials included in the poll. Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted 40 percent approval overall and 85 percent among Republicans. D. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stood at 34 percent overall approval and 77 percent among Republicans.
The FBI has rejected suggestions of wrongdoing regarding a Pearl Harbor visit during an official trip to Hawaii. The Navy described such visits as routine for senior officials. Patel has denied allegations about his professional conduct reported by The Atlantic and challenged them in court.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- September 2025
Quinnipiac poll showed 70 percent Republican approval of Patel.
1 sourceNewsweek - May 14-18, 2026
Quinnipiac surveyed 1,106 registered voters on Patel's performance.
1 sourceNewsweek - This week
Quinnipiac released poll showing 67 percent Republican approval.
1 sourceNewsweek
Potential Impact
- 01
Early shifts in Republican support can signal changes in political standing for administration figures.
- 02
The FBI may face continued questions about official conduct during travel.
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