SE Kansas News

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, who chairs the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, led a hearing to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The session included testimony from FBI Director Kash Patel regarding the agency's budget proposal and his priorities.

Senator Moran expressed concerns about potential reductions in FBI personnel. He stated, "Fewer FBI special agents, intelligence analysts, and professional staff could hinder the bureau in executing the President’s commitment to making our communities safe." He emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement at all levels and noted that reducing federal law enforcement presence in Kansas would mean less support for local police officers and sheriffs.

The senator also questioned Director Patel about plans to relocate up to 40 FBI positions within Kansas. He highlighted that Kansas has four resident agencies located in Garden City, Manhattan, Wichita, and Topeka. Moran remarked on their need for adequate support: "We have four FBI resident agencies in Kansas – Garden City, Manhattan, Wichita and Topeka – those offices are worthy of that kind of support as well."

Director Patel responded by acknowledging geographic considerations: "You hit on one of the most important things I told my team when we are doing this," he said. "We aren’t sending more agents to LA just because it’s LA. We have to cover down on geography, and every one of your offices and RAs [resident agencies] that you mentioned is getting a plus up because that is the only way to cover down on geography."