Why did the chief priests and scribes wanted Jesus put to death?

The chief priests and scribes wanted Jesus put to death primarily because they perceived him as a threat to their religious authority and the established Jewish law. His growing popularity among the people and his teachings challenged their interpretations of scripture and undermined their control. Additionally, they viewed his claims of divinity and messianic identity as blasphemous, which warranted death under their religious laws. Ultimately, they sought to eliminate him to maintain their power and influence.