Democratic lawmakers at a Justice Department budget hearing Tuesday blasted FBI Director Kash Patel about his behavior, as well as fresh reports about the Trump administration’s investigations into internal leaks and the president’s enemies.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., began the Senate Appropriations Committee hearing by condemning the firing of FBI agents and accusing Patel of “weaponizing” the agency to seek political revenge on behalf of Trump, particularly against journalists “who write stories that you don’t like.”

Van Hollen called reports of Patel’s misconduct, specifically his drunken behavior, which he has denied, “extremely alarming.”

“If true, they demonstrate a gross dereliction of your duty and a betrayal of public trust,” Van Hollen said. 

In a loud exchange, Patel then accused Van Hollen of “drinking margaritas with felons,” alluding to a photo Van Hollen has said was staged when he went to El Salvador to visit Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man who was illegally deported.

“You drink during the day, that’s you,” Patel said.

Asked by Van Hollen if he would take a test to determine whether he has a drinking problem, Patel agreed to do it alongside him.

“I’ll take any test you’re willing to take,” Patel said.

In his opening remarks, Patel touted successes under his leadership and tried to frame Van Hollen’s comments as an attack on the bureau.

“This FBI is doing a historic level of crime reduction across the country. I’m proud to lead it,” Patel said. “And if you want to cite media reporting to discredit the men and women of the FBI, go right ahead. The target’s right here. The mission’s never been more successful.” 

Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., questioned Patel about his trip to the Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, where he was captured on video chugging beer with the U.S. men’s hockey team in a locker room. Coons asked how much the trip cost and how it furthered the FBI’s mission.

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Erum Salam

Erum Salam is a breaking news reporter for MS NOW, with a focus on how global events and foreign policy shape U.S. politics. She previously was a breaking news reporter for The Guardian.