In an exclusive conversation with Joe Pags, FBI whistleblower Steve Friend unveiled critical insights into systemic failures that jeopardize America’s security. urgent insights into the systemic failures within the bureau that allowed a Texas-born Army veteran to become radicalized and carry out the recent New Orleans terror attack. Friend, who spent over eight years as an FBI agent, dissected the missed warnings and structural flaws that contributed to this tragedy and called for sweeping reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Friend described the FBI as distracted by political agendas, asserting that it has shifted from safeguarding national security to becoming an “arbiter of wrong think.” This misdirection, he argued, enabled critical lapses in identifying and addressing threats like those posed by Jibbar, the New Orleans attacker.
Friend criticized the shortcomings of the “see something, say something” approach, explaining how fear of government overreach discourages citizens from reporting potential threats. “The federal government has co-opted so many of these local agencies,” Friend noted, pointing to the growing disconnect between federal and local law enforcement. He advocated for empowering local authorities, emphasizing their accountability to the communities they serve as a key to improving security measures.
Friend also exposed deeper issues within the FBI’s internal structure, such as reliance on quota systems that prioritize case statistics over meaningful security outcomes. He underscored the need to dissolve the bureau’s intelligence branch, which he sees as exacerbating inefficiencies and diverting resources from critical investigative work.
Looking ahead, Friend outlined a strategic plan for Kash Patel, the likely incoming FBI director under the Trump administration. As a former FBI agent, Friend emphasized the importance of dismantling entrenched bureaucratic inefficiencies, including the repeal of quotas and shifting focus back to investigative integrity. He suggested that Patel prioritize empowering local law enforcement to take the lead on community-specific issues while the FBI provides support. Friend also recommended eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that he believes detract from core security missions. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of restoring constitutional protections, such as Second Amendment rights, within the bureau’s operational framework.
With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office, the opportunity to enact significant changes looms large. Friend’s candid analysis and call for accountability come at a pivotal moment, urging a renewed focus on restoring the FBI’s integrity and effectiveness in safeguarding the nation.