the FBI has opened a criminal investigation focusing on Atlantic journalist
    Sarah Fitzpatrick, related to an article she published last month about
    Director Kash Patel.

    Patel filed a lawsuit against Fitzpatrick and The Atlantic following 
    the story’s publication, alleging defamation and demanding $250 million.

    Filing a flimsy civil lawsuit as a private citizen is Patel’s right,
    though it is also plainly an inappropriate attempt to smother unflattering
    reporting. But if Patel’s bureau has launched a criminal investigation
    into a reporter, employing the power of the federal government, that
    would be a significant escalation.