New $90K taxpayer-funded SUVs for Diego Morales, Micah Beckwith raise eyebrows at the Statehouse: Report

Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales and Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith have come under scrutiny for their recent taxpayer-funded vehicle purchases. Morales drives a $90,000 GMC Yukon Denali, a luxury SUV with premium features, while Beckwith opted for a $88,000 Chevy Tahoe High Country, the top trim level of the model. Their purchases coincided with a bipartisan push for stricter regulations on state officials’ vehicle spending. House Bill 1518, which is awaiting Governor Mike Braun’s signature, would require state-funded vehicles to be standard models unless an exemption is granted. The bill’s author, Rep. Mitch Gore, criticized the officials’ choices, calling them excessive and saying they took advantage of the lack of restrictions before the new law takes effect. However, Beckwith defended his decision, citing rising car prices and the need for a spacious vehicle for his team, reported Indystar.com

The controversy is part of a broader discussion on government spending in Indiana, especially as lawmakers prepare a tight state budget. Despite advocating for fiscal responsibility, Beckwith requested a budget increase for his office while choosing the high-end SUV. Morales, already facing scrutiny over his spending and hiring decisions, justified his Denali purchase by citing its use for statewide travel. Other state officials, like Treasurer Daniel Elliott and Comptroller Elise Nieshalla, have more modest state-funded vehicles. The new legislation, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, aims to curb unnecessary luxury spending by state agencies. While it won’t force Beckwith or Morales to return their vehicles, Gore believes they should sell them and replace them with more affordable alternatives.