On a recent visit to the White House, Tesla's CEO Elon Musk joined forces with U.S. President Donald Trump in an effort to boost public confidence in Tesla's electric vehicles. During this event, Trump made headlines by announcing his intent to purchase a new Tesla as a gesture of support for Musk and his company. The president also addressed ongoing protests against Tesla dealerships, labeling them as "domestic terrorism." This marks a significant shift in Trump's stance on Musk, who was once criticized as a "bullshit artist" reliant on government subsidies.
During the event held on the White House lawn, Trump expressed admiration for Tesla's lineup, particularly praising its flagship Model S Plaid. Accompanied by Musk and his son X, the president showcased five Tesla models arranged as a personal showroom. Trump highlighted that he would pay full price for his chosen vehicle, opting for a red Model S Plaid. Despite not being able to drive it himself due to security protocols, Trump stated the car would remain at the White House for staff use.
In addition to promoting Tesla's products, Trump lavished praise on Musk personally, referring to him as an "incredible patriot." This aligns with Musk's work at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has garnered attention. Trump emphasized Musk's independence, stating that he had never asked for favors during their acquaintance—a stark contrast to earlier accusations that Musk relied heavily on government assistance.
Despite these endorsements, Tesla continues to face market challenges. Stock prices plummeted by over 15% on Monday, marking its worst trading day since September 2020. Although there was a slight rebound of nearly four percent on Tuesday, the overall trend remains downward. Tesla's profits dropped significantly in Q4 2024, and global sales have faltered, partly attributed to Musk's polarizing influence. Nonetheless, Musk remains optimistic about doubling U.S. production within two years.
President Trump's actions signify a strategic move to bolster Tesla amidst its financial struggles. By publicly supporting Musk and showcasing Tesla vehicles at the White House, Trump aims to counteract negative perceptions and encourage consumer confidence. Despite legal misconceptions regarding boycotts, the administration seeks to address protests targeting Tesla dealerships through strong rhetoric. This alliance underscores a renewed commitment to American innovation in the automotive industry.