Sun Feb 23 05:35:11 UTC 2025: ## Trump Ally Kash Patel to Head ATF, Sparking Controversy

**Washington, D.C. –** Kash Patel, the newly appointed FBI Director, is set to take on the additional role of acting head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), according to a Justice Department official. This unprecedented move, expected to be formalized next week, places a staunch Trump ally in charge of two major Justice Department agencies.

The appointment follows the recent firing of ATF’s chief counsel, Pamela Hicks, by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who cited concerns about the agency “targeting gun owners.” Ms. Hicks, a 20-year veteran of the Justice Department, refuted these claims.

Mr. Patel’s confirmation as FBI Director faced opposition from Democrats due to his plans for significant FBI reform. His appointment to lead the ATF has been met with alarm from gun control groups who label him a “gun rights extremist,” while gun rights organizations celebrate the decision as a victory.

The ATF, with approximately 5,500 employees, enforces federal laws related to firearms, explosives, and arson. Conservatives have long criticized the agency’s role in firearm regulation, and President Trump recently issued an executive order reviewing Biden-era firearm regulations. The previous ATF director, Steve Dettelbach, served from July 2022 until last month. His appointment broke a years-long deadlock on confirming an ATF director. The unusual arrangement raises questions about the future direction of both agencies under Mr. Patel’s leadership.

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