FBI Director-designate Kash Patel on Thursday vowed to restore public trust in the FBI during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

"Such misconduct is unacceptable and undermines public trust. The erosion of trust is evident: only 40 percent of Americans hold a favorable view of the FBI," Patel said. "This must change. Public cooperation is vital for the bureau to solve crimes, and its declining reputation is already affecting recruitment efforts."

He further vowed to work with Congress to provide oversight and bring the bureau's operations to light.

"Second, transparency is essential. Members of congress have hundreds of unanswered requests to the FBI," he added. "If confirmed, I will be a strong advocate for Congressional oversight, ensuring that the FBI operates with the openness necessary to rebuild trust by simply replying to you."