India, Feb. 22 -- Kash Patel has officially assumed the role of FBI Director, calling the appointment the "greatest honor" of his life. His Senate confirmation on Thursday passed by a narrow 51-49 vote, with Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski breaking ranks to oppose him.

President Donald Trump, speaking ahead of Patel's swearing-in on Friday, praised him as "the best ever" for the position, adding that "agents love this guy." The ceremony, conducted by Attorney General Pam Bondi, was attended by key Republican allies, including Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Jim Jordan.

Patel takes over an FBI embroiled in turmoil, with the Justice Department ousting senior officials and demanding names of agents involved in the January 6 Cap...