FBI Director Kash Patel is under fire for his request to acquire a fleet of armored BMWs, diverging from the traditional use of Chevrolet Suburbans designated for FBI directors. Four insiders reported to MS Now that Patel’s rationale for the luxury vehicles was to maintain a lower profile during his travels. This move has drawn significant criticism, particularly from Democratic lawmakers.
The FBI confirmed that it has indeed procured BMW X5s for Patel’s use. Ben Williamson, an FBI spokesperson, stated that the bureau sought to update its vehicle fleet and concluded that the BMWs were more cost-effective compared to other options available.
Congressman Jimmy Gomez reacted strongly on social media, expressing disbelief over the decision. He remarked, “People can’t even afford groceries, but we’re letting Kash Patel buy a fleet of BMWs so he can look cool in front of his girlfriend?” This sentiment was echoed by several other critics, including Congressman Eric Swalwell, who called for Patel’s resignation, stating, “Director Patel has lost the confidence of the team he must lead.”
In a more creative response, California Governor Gavin Newsom‘s press team shared an AI-generated image of Patel humorously driving a miniature BMW in front of the White House.
Williamson defended the FBI’s decision, explaining that government agencies routinely assess and update their vehicle fleets based on various factors, including usage, security needs, and budgetary constraints. He emphasized that the specific choices made were intended to save taxpayers millions by selecting more economical options.
This controversy is not Patel’s first encounter with scrutiny over his expenditures. He recently faced backlash after it was revealed that he used a federal jet to attend a performance by his girlfriend, country music artist Alexis Wilkins, at a wrestling event. Critics labeled this use of taxpayer-funded resources as an abuse, an accusation Patel previously leveled against his predecessor.
Despite attempts to clarify his actions, Patel’s critics have persisted. During a podcast appearance, he responded to the criticism, addressing claims that he was misusing government resources for personal matters. He noted, “It’s ironic that they’re saying ‘You’re going on vacation’ or ‘You’re going to see your girlfriend perform.’ If I was actually abusing it, I would go see every one of her shows.” He clarified that he has only attended three of her performances this year.
Patel pointed out that FBI directors are not permitted to travel on commercial flights, which he claimed necessitated the use of federal jets. He asserted that he has advocated for cost-saving measures regarding travel, including mandating the use of government airfields. “The prior two directors didn’t want to drive an extra 20 minutes to go to a government airfield like Andrews,” he explained, adding that this preference resulted in added costs to taxpayers of between $4,000 and $7,000.
The timing of Patel’s podcast, which aired during an active manhunt for a shooter responsible for a tragic incident at Brown University, has drawn further criticism. The attack, classified as a terrorist incident, resulted in the death of two individuals and injuries to nine others, casting a shadow over Patel’s public relations efforts.
As the backlash continues, Patel’s leadership and decisions are under increasing scrutiny, prompting questions about accountability and the use of public resources in high-ranking government positions.
