FOX 1: Sen. Thom Tillis (RN.C.) wants answers from the FBI after President-elect Donald Trump's pick for FBI director was reportedly targeted by Iranian hackers .
“It is extremely disturbing that an Iranian-backed group targeted the next candidate to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).Also concerning is the fact that classified and potentially classified information regarding this attack has been reported. “It's the speed with which it spreads through institutions.” The North Carolina senator said in a letter to FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate on Monday:
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Thom Tillis (left) questioned the FBI about the report of the cyberattack on Kash Patel and how quickly the media learned about it. (Reuters)
Last week, multiple media outlets reported that Kash Patel, President Trump's pick for the new FBI director, was the target of Iranian hacking.
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In response to reports of the attempted hack, Trump transition press secretary Alex Pfeiffer told Fox News Digital, “Kash Patel was an important part of the first Trump administration's efforts against the terrorist Iranian regime.'' “As president, I will carry out President Trump's policies to protect America from our enemies.” Director of the FBI. ”
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Patel continues to meet with senators on the Hill. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
In his letter, Tillis pointed to various law enforcement sources who apparently contacted the news organization.
“As you know, it is essential that the FBI and other intelligence agencies maintain secrecy to protect the American people from our enemies, both domestic and foreign.Release of this information is critical to national security and personal safety. “This raises serious concerns,” he wrote.
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Mr. Tillis questioned Mr. Abate about how the information was leaked. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
Republican lawmakers asked Abate a series of questions, including whether FBI officials shared information about the cyberattack with the media or third parties who may have provided it to the media.
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The FBI told FOX News Digital that it had received the letter but had no further comment.
Patel has been touring the Capitol and meeting with senators in an effort to shore up support ahead of Trump's inauguration as president in January.
