Additional Coverage:
- FBI Director Kash Patel, New York Times clash over paper’s claim its reporter was ‘investigated’ (foxnews.com)
The New York Times and the FBI are engaged in a heated dispute after the newspaper claimed that the FBI investigated one of its reporters-a charge the bureau vehemently denies.
In a report published Wednesday, the Times stated that the FBI launched an investigation last month into reporter Elizabeth Williamson following her article about FBI Director Kash Patel allegedly using bureau resources to provide government security and transportation to his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins.
Williamson’s February story detailed how Wilkins received enhanced protection, including SWAT team escorts during her travels. At the time, FBI spokesman Ben Williamson (no relation) explained that the security measures were necessary due to “more than a dozen active death threats” Wilkins faced as a result of her relationship with Director Patel.
The Times further alleged that FBI agents interviewed Wilkins, searched databases for information on Elizabeth Williamson, and considered whether Williamson had violated federal stalking laws. The report suggested some Justice Department officials viewed the inquiry as retaliatory, motivated by displeasure from Patel and Wilkins over the article, and ultimately found no legal grounds to continue the investigation.
New York Times executive editor Joe Kahn condemned the FBI’s actions, calling them “a blatant violation of Elizabeth’s First Amendment rights” and an attempt by the administration to deter journalistic scrutiny. “It’s alarming.
It’s unconstitutional. And it’s wrong,” Kahn said.
The FBI strongly refuted the claims. Spokesman Ben Williamson labeled the accusations “false,” clarifying that while investigators were concerned about some of the reporter’s methods crossing into stalking territory, no formal investigation into Williamson or her reporting took place.
Erica Knight, an advisor to Patel, echoed this defense on social media, explaining that the FBI’s interactions were part of routine victim interviews after a man made violent threats against Wilkins, reportedly sparked by Williamson’s article. Knight emphasized that Williamson was never personally investigated and that the individual responsible for the threats has been arrested and charged.
Patel himself addressed the controversy during an appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity,” reaffirming that the Times’ story led directly to threats against Wilkins. “This individual has been charged, arrested and is in court,” Patel said. “We are going to protect not only me and my loved ones but every American that is threatened.”
The New York Times stood by its reporting, with a spokesperson telling Fox News Digital that the article presents important and concerning information and that the newspaper remains confident in its accuracy.
This dispute underscores the ongoing tensions between the press and government agencies over investigative reporting and national security concerns.