A senior administration source is pushing back on claims of internal conflict within federal law-enforcement and intelligence agencies investigating the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, according to Fox News.
The official said reports of friction between FBI Director Kash Patel and National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) Director Joe Kent were exaggerated, emphasizing that the agencies are cooperating closely under Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
Recent media accounts alleged Patel was “alarmed” that Kent examined FBI case files connected to the shooting, implying the move caused tensions inside the Trump administration. The New York Times based its story on unnamed officials, asserting Kent had overstepped his authority by reviewing materials related to the case against 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, the accused gunman.
According to the administration source, Kent’s review was conducted lawfully and in coordination with appropriate personnel. “There’s no feud here,” the source said. “Everyone involved is working toward the same goal — finding out whether anyone helped the shooter and ensuring justice for Charlie Kirk.”
Patel and Gabbard previously issued a joint statement affirming that the federal investigation remains active:
“The FBI and intelligence community under the direction of President Trump will leave no stone unturned in the investigation of the assassination of our friend, Charlie Kirk.”
Prosecutors in Utah have charged Robinson with seven counts, including felony aggravated murder. Officials have said they believe he acted alone, though investigators continue to examine whether any outside groups or foreign entities were involved.
The Times report drew criticism for relying on anonymous sources and portraying Patel as an obstacle.
“This article is literally about how Kash Patel is upset that Joe Kent and Tulsi Gabbard are trying to do their jobs and solve the Charlie Kirk murder case. I do not trust him at all,” commentator Candace Owens wrote on X.
“First he helped bury the Epstein client list. Now he’s shutting down investigations into whether foreign actors were involved in the assassination of Charlie Kirk. KASH PATEL IS THE SWAMP,” posted Dr. Simon Goddeck.
Observers say the conflicting media narratives highlight how anonymous leaks and selective framing continue to shape public perception of high-profile investigations.
The Dallas Express reached out to the FBI for comment but did not receive a response by publication time.