Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., clashed with FBI director nominee Kash Patel during his confirmation hearing on Thursday, particularly over a recording of a song released by Capitol Riot inmates. The song features President Donald Trump reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Schiff began by asking Patel about his prior testimony, citing a statement he made on Steve Bannon’s podcast, in which he discussed the song. Patel claimed that he had not personally participated in the recording or mastering of the single.
Schiff was not convinced, citing Patel’s use of the word “we” in his statement. Patel maintained that he had used the word “we” to refer to a collective effort, but Schiff argued that it implied involvement. The exchange became heated, with Patel responding, “Not in every instance” and “Not unless you have a new definition for the word ‘we’.”
The scene was reminiscent of a similar exchange between President Bill Clinton and a committee in 1997, in which Clinton famously said, “It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is.”
Schiff also accused Patel of promoting the song, which was created by Capitol Riot inmates who were later pardoned by Trump. Patel denied these allegations, saying, “I’ve never, never, ever accepted violence against law enforcement. I’ve worked with these men and women, as you know, my entire life.”
