Kash Patel, who had been temporarily serving as the acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), has been replaced by U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, officials confirmed Wednesday.
FBI Director Kash Patel
Patel continues to serve as FBI Director, a position he was appointed to just three days before taking on the ATF role.
The ATF’s website still listed Patel as acting director as of Wednesday afternoon, despite the change.
The leadership shift was first reported by Reuters and had not been officially announced by the Department of Justice (DOJ) at the time.
One Man, Two Agencies: An Unusual Dual Role
Patel’s brief dual appointment raised eyebrows in D.C., as it’s rare for one individual to lead two major federal law enforcement agencies simultaneously.
- He was sworn in as acting ATF director on February 24.
- A DOJ official confirmed Patel’s removal was not related to his job performance.
- No specific reason for his removal was given.
Driscoll Steps In — And Stays in Two Roles
Daniel Driscoll, currently the U.S. Army Secretary, has now taken over as acting director of the ATF.
According to three sources familiar with the decision, Driscoll will retain both roles for the time being.
It’s unclear when the handoff officially occurred or when Driscoll was notified.
Driscoll was reported to be traveling on Wednesday, having recently returned from the Middle East.
Wider Context: Trump’s Second Term and DOJ Cost-Cutting Moves
This change comes amid a broader pattern of sudden federal personnel shifts and policy reversals during President Trump’s second term.
In the past week alone, the administration temporarily rolled back new tariffs just one day after raising them.
DOJ officials are reportedly considering a merger between the ATF and the DEA to streamline operations and reduce costs.
White House Responds
White House spokesman Harrison Fields issued a statement downplaying the leadership change:
“Director Kash Patel was briefly designated ATF Director while awaiting Senate confirmations — a standard, short-term move.”
“Dozens of similar re-designations have occurred across the federal government. Director Patel is now excelling in his role at the FBI and delivering outstanding results.”
