Kash Patel defends taxpayer-funded armored BMWs and jet upgrades as 'steward of taxpayer dollars'

Kash Patel’s armored BMWs and jet requests draw congressional scrutiny

FBI Director Kash Patel is under criticism for reportedly using government resources for personal travel, including requesting armored BMW X5s and pushing for a new jet. Patel now travels in BMW X5 vehicles purchased at his request, replacing the Chevrolet Suburbans traditionally used to transport FBI directors. According to MS NOW, Patel preferred the high-end vehicles to move discreetly without drawing attention.

FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson confirmed the vehicle purchase, saying it was part of a planned fleet update and claimed the BMWs were cheaper than other options. Williamson added, “Government agencies, including the FBI, routinely evaluate, replace and update vehicle fleets based on usage, security needs or budgetary decisions."

The FBI has a contract with BMW for armored SUVs, commonly used to protect State Department officials in high-risk environments. Sources say Patel is the first FBI director to regularly use this foreign-branded vehicle, though his security team still occasionally uses Suburbans. A person close to Patel said a new armored Suburban would have cost $480,000, more than twice the price of the BMWs Patel requested.

Patel previously requested a new FBI jet, but the plan was reportedly dropped after estimates ranged from $90 million to $115 million. The current Gulfstream jet remains in use, though Patel sought upgraded communications equipment, citing the need for reliable internet to post on social media.

Former officials have criticized Patel’s demands. Stacey Young, a former Justice Department official, called the BMW purchase “an embarrassment,” adding, “He needs a field jacket that fits just right, a ‘Punisher’-inspired challenge coin and a new fleet of foreign cars to drive around in.”

Patel defended his actions, calling the criticism “nonsense” and describing himself as a “steward of taxpayer dollars.” He noted that he uses government airfields instead of private airports, claiming it has saved money compared with predecessors.

While the FBI claims the BMWs saved taxpayers money, it is unclear whether the vehicles were cheaper than the Suburbans. Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell criticized Patel, stating, “It’s time to KASH OUT. Director Patel has lost the confidence of the team he must lead. Their leaks are desperate pleas to give them a director who can keep us safe,” calling for his resignation.

The BMW X5s are armored to protect against firearms, including AK-47s, though critics argue such measures are unnecessary, as previous directors traveled without armored vehicles due to low risk in Washington, D.C.

House Democrats have launched an investigation into Patel’s use of government resources, requesting detailed travel records and internal communications about vehicle and aircraft purchases. The inquiry follows Patel’s controversial tenure, including the firing of top FBI officials linked to investigations into former President Donald Trump.