Endorsement of a Dedicated Patriot

FIRST ON FOX: Carl and Marsha Mueller, the grieving parents of Kayla Mueller—an ISIS murder victim—have publicly endorsed Kash Patel for the role of FBI director. This endorsement comes after years of personal engagement with the Trump administration nominee.

“He loves his country. He loves the people of this country,” Marsha Mueller stated in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital. “To us, you know, he is a person that we would go to for help. And he is so action-oriented.”

Carl Mueller echoed his wife’s sentiments, saying, “Just like Trump,” highlighting Patel’s proactive nature.

Kayla’s Tragic Story

Kayla Mueller was abducted in 2013 while providing humanitarian aid in Aleppo, Syria. During her 18-month captivity, she experienced horrendous abuse at the hands of ISIS militants, including then-leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Tragically, she was confirmed dead in 2015—a devastating loss for her family, who now speak out against terrorism and advocate for hostages worldwide.

A Personal Connection to Patel

Patel’s prior role as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism at the National Security Council during Donald Trump’s first administration brought him into contact with the Muellers. He assisted in overseeing the military operation that resulted in the elimination of ISIS chief al-Baghdadi in 2019.

The Muellers recently penned a heartfelt letter to Senators Chuck Grassley and Dick Durbin of the Senate Judiciary Committee, stating, “Any family who has lived through such an experience will know the value of dedicated, compassionate law enforcement officials.”

They elaborated, praising Patel’s unwavering dedication and humanity, “We continue to see in him a genuinely kind, thoughtful, action-oriented man who focuses on what is true and right and just. He loves our country and our citizens and wants the best for us all.”

A Relationship Built on Compassion

According to the Muellers, Patel has been a consistent source of support over the past five years, often reaching out to offer assistance. “I’m confident if I texted him right now, he would get back to me before this interview is over,” Carl noted.

The Muellers discussed their initial meeting with Patel at the White House nearly five years ago, recalling his sincere offer to assist them in their search for Kayla. “They wanted to sit down and talk with us about Kayla… And they told us to continue to work with [former FBI agent] Ali Soufan.”

Reflections on Past Encounters

In their letter endorsing Patel, the Muellers expressed gratitude for the attentiveness and compassion he showed them, contrasting it with their treatment during the previous administration, which they found lacking. Marsha reflected, “He wrote us the note, and he said, ‘Please contact me at any time, day or night, with whatever questions you may have, or simply if you just need someone to speak with. I’ll always answer your call.’”

Hope for Hostage Families

Referring to the current political landscape, Carl Mueller pointed out that families of hostages have hope for the return of their loved ones. “Their chances of getting their loved ones home have exponentially increased with the Trump administration in there,” he said emphatically. He reiterated his belief that had Trump been in office when Kayla was taken, she would have been rescued.

Obama offered his condolences after Kayla’s death, promising justice against her captors, but the Muellers believe the political shift to Trump brings renewed efforts to resolve such cases.

Patel’s Journey to Nomination

If confirmed, Patel will replace former FBI Director Christopher Wray. The Muellers expressed optimism about his potential leadership. They acknowledged Wray’s commendable support throughout their ordeal but anticipate progress under Patel’s direction.

The nomination process is now underway. Patel is set to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee, facing scrutiny from Democrats who claim he lacks the necessary qualifications for the role.

Supporting Families of Victims

Even after his tenure as a government official, Patel has maintained connections with families affected by terrorism. The Muellers recalled how he joined them during the trial of El Shafee Elsheikh, a member of the “ISIS Beatles.” Elsheikh was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the captivity and deaths of American and foreign nationals, including Kayla Mueller.

Patel’s continued engagement with these families highlights his commitment to justice, regardless of his official position.

Carrying Kayla’s Legacy

Marsha Mueller poignantly shared Kayla’s words during her captivity, capturing her essence: “I’ve known for some time what my life’s work is, using my hands as tools to relieve suffering…that is my life’s work, but my family is my life.” This reflection emphasizes the Muellers’ enduring love for Kayla and her mission to help others.