Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is hitting back at critics after a report revealed his new government vehicle cost taxpayers over $163,000. The vehicle, a 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, is reportedly the most expensive executive ride in the state of Maryland. Scott defended the purchase during a heated press conference, suggesting the scrutiny was fueled by a "right-wing" effort and "racist slant."
The mayor compared his security needs to the federal level, pointing to the cost of the President's armored fleet. He argued that inflation and necessary safety modifications are being ignored by his detractors. "Just because you didn’t get the answer that you wanted in your racist slant, that’s one thing," Scott told a reporter after calling their line of questioning "idiotic."
The mayor’s office clarified that the $163,495 price tag represents the "total project cost." This includes the base MSRP plus police-grade upgrades like emergency lights, sirens, and secure communication tools. The vehicle is operated by the Baltimore Police Department’s Executive Protection Unit and replaced a model from 2016.
Critics on social media were quick to seize on the exchange. Maryland Delegate Kathy Szeliga accused the mayor of "classic deflection," noting the irony of a climate advocate driving a vehicle that gets only 14 MPG. Others, like commentator Brandon Tatum, labeled Scott an "unqualified virtue-signaler" for using identity politics to dodge accountability for the city's $85 million budget deficit.
The mayor’s team insists the procurement followed all standard procedures and was approved by the Board of Estimates in late 2024. They also disputed the claim that it is the most expensive vehicle in the state. They argued the report relied on incomplete data and comparisons to much older vehicles from different jurisdictions.
Scott has long criticized "corrupt and inept" leaders for prioritizing flashy transportation over substance. While his office says those past comments referred to public transit systems, his opponents argue the "sweet ride" contradicts his image as a fighter against the status quo. The debate continues to simmer as Baltimore residents face a tight fiscal year.