Trump and Musk Showcase Tesla Amid Declining Sales and Controversy
In a dramatic display of support, Donald Trump purchases a Tesla amid falling stock prices and allegations of illegal boycotts.
On March 11, 2025, in an unusual event held at the White House, former President Donald Trump publicly supported Tesla CEO Elon Musk by staging a car purchase in front of several Tesla vehicles, including a red Model S. This backdrop comes at a critical time as Tesla's stock price plummeted over 15% on March 10, resulting from a significant drop in vehicle sales and a broader slowdown in the technology sector on Wall Street.
Trump declared his intent to buy a Tesla, stating it was a “very good product” and that Musk had been treated “very unfairly.” He emphasized his support for Musk, who has faced scrutiny after taking a role in a non-governmental agency focused on reducing federal spending.
At the event, Trump announced, “He cannot be punished for being a patriot” while flanked by Musk and his son.
The former president humorously noted that he had not driven a car in a long time and specified that the vehicle would be available for his staff at the White House.
In a more serious tone, he addressed threats of vandalism against Tesla vehicles, stating, “We will catch you, and you will live in hell.”
Musk responded by announcing Tesla's plans to double its production of vehicles in the United States within the next two years, reaffirming his commitment to American manufacturing.
This display of solidarity comes during a turbulent period for Tesla, whose stock market valuation has halved since December 2024. Analysts have observed that Musk's political statements, particularly those aligning with far-right views in Europe, may have alienated some potential customers amid a rising call to boycott the company.
In the past few weeks, calls for a boycott of Tesla have intensified, coinciding with incidents of vandalism involving Tesla vehicles.
Notably, four Tesla cars were reportedly set ablaze in Seattle, an incident under investigation by local authorities.
In an unrelated development, South Korean automaker Kia issued a statement distancing itself from a controversial advertisement that mocked Musk and featured a Kia vehicle.
This incident underlines the increasing tensions related to Musk's public persona and corporate actions, and their impact on brand perception in the automotive industry.
As the political and economic landscapes continue to evolve, the implications of Trump's public endorsement for both Tesla and Musk remain to be seen.
Trump declared his intent to buy a Tesla, stating it was a “very good product” and that Musk had been treated “very unfairly.” He emphasized his support for Musk, who has faced scrutiny after taking a role in a non-governmental agency focused on reducing federal spending.
At the event, Trump announced, “He cannot be punished for being a patriot” while flanked by Musk and his son.
The former president humorously noted that he had not driven a car in a long time and specified that the vehicle would be available for his staff at the White House.
In a more serious tone, he addressed threats of vandalism against Tesla vehicles, stating, “We will catch you, and you will live in hell.”
Musk responded by announcing Tesla's plans to double its production of vehicles in the United States within the next two years, reaffirming his commitment to American manufacturing.
This display of solidarity comes during a turbulent period for Tesla, whose stock market valuation has halved since December 2024. Analysts have observed that Musk's political statements, particularly those aligning with far-right views in Europe, may have alienated some potential customers amid a rising call to boycott the company.
In the past few weeks, calls for a boycott of Tesla have intensified, coinciding with incidents of vandalism involving Tesla vehicles.
Notably, four Tesla cars were reportedly set ablaze in Seattle, an incident under investigation by local authorities.
In an unrelated development, South Korean automaker Kia issued a statement distancing itself from a controversial advertisement that mocked Musk and featured a Kia vehicle.
This incident underlines the increasing tensions related to Musk's public persona and corporate actions, and their impact on brand perception in the automotive industry.
As the political and economic landscapes continue to evolve, the implications of Trump's public endorsement for both Tesla and Musk remain to be seen.
