Baltimore Mayor Defends Pricey Taxpayer-Funded SUV

Scott accuses reporter of "racist slant" when questioned about $163,000 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Feb. 3, 2026 at 7:07pm

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Democratic Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has been criticized for using a $163,000 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, the most expensive executive vehicle used by a Maryland public official. When questioned by a local reporter about the high cost, Scott accused the reporter of having a "racist slant" and dismissed the line of questioning.

Why it matters

The mayor's use of an extravagantly priced taxpayer-funded vehicle has raised concerns about government spending and transparency, especially as the vehicle costs more than double that of the one used by the state's governor.

The details

The 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer used by Mayor Scott costs over $163,000, which is more than twice the $82,141 price tag of the 2025 Chevrolet Suburban used by Maryland Governor Wes Moore. When questioned by WBFF reporter Tessa Bentulan about the high cost, Scott accused the reporter of having a "racist slant" and dismissed the line of questioning.

  • In October 2025, Scott claimed the vehicle's price was in line with other vehicles used by Maryland government officials.
  • On February 3, 2026, Scott was questioned by WBFF reporter Tessa Bentulan about the $163,000 cost of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

The players

Brandon Scott

The Democratic mayor of Baltimore, Maryland.

Tessa Bentulan

An investigative reporter for WBFF who questioned Mayor Scott about the high cost of his taxpayer-funded SUV.

Wes Moore

The Democratic governor of Maryland, whose state-provided vehicle costs $82,141, less than half the price of Mayor Scott's.

Marilyn Mosby

The former Baltimore City State's Attorney who asked the FCC to investigate WBFF's license in 2021 after the station ran critical reports on her.

Sinclair Broadcasting Group

The owner of WBFF, which partners with The Baltimore Sun and WJLA in the Spotlight on Maryland enterprise.

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What they’re saying

“We'll just stop you right there. We get it. We understand that your station has this severe right wing effort underway.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

“I did answer the question. Just because you didn't get the answer you wanted and your racist slant is one thing.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.