Kash Patel has been removed as acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and replaced by U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, according to U.S. officials. Patel, who remains FBI Director, had held both roles since late February—an unusual move that surprised insiders.
His removal, first reported by Reuters, was confirmed by the Justice Department, which stated the decision was unrelated to job performance but offered no further explanation. As of Wednesday, Patel’s photo still appeared on the ATF’s website. Driscoll, who recently returned from the Middle East, will now serve as acting ATF director while retaining his role as Army Secretary.
The leadership shift comes as Attorney General Pam Bondi doubles down on protecting gun rights, launching a task force focused on enforcing the Second Amendment. The ATF, under Bondi’s directive, will play a central role alongside the Civil Rights Division. This follows President Trump’s directive to roll back gun regulations imposed under the Biden administration.
Earlier this week, the ATF repealed its controversial "zero tolerance policy" that revoked licenses from gun dealers with serious violations. The policy change included a statement from Patel before his removal.
Patel’s sudden appointment in February shocked many ATF staff, with little internal communication about the move. Sources say he was only briefly present at ATF headquarters and largely absent since.
Some officials have expressed concern about instability within the ATF, warning it may undermine efforts to curb violent crime. Meanwhile, industry group NSSF welcomed Driscoll’s appointment, citing his commitment to reform and Second Amendment protections.
The Justice Department is also considering merging the ATF with the Drug Enforcement Administration to cut costs, further signaling possible structural changes ahead.