FBI Director Kash Patel has filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic over a report alleging excessive drinking and erratic behavior. The lawsuit marks a sharp escalation in a dispute over claims that have reportedly raised concerns within the FBI and Justice Department, although Patel and his legal team have denied the allegations, calling them false, defamatory and politically motivated. FBI director files lawsuit against 'The Atlantic' Kash Patel's lawsuit targeted 'The Atlantic' and staff writer Sarah Fitzpatrick.