Outrage has erupted over President Donald Trump’s recent antics, with critics branding the move as a “huge conflict of interest”.
In a bold demonstration of support for his adviser Elon Musk, Trump transformed the White House South Lawn into a temporary showcase for Tesla on Tuesday, March 11. The car magnate and billionaire CEO stood to benefit as five of his electric cars took pride of place on the presidential grounds.
Just hours after voicing his intention on Truth Social to purchase a Tesla, he was seen praising the company in TikTok videos. He surveyed the sleek automobiles up close, prompting public dismay.
Accusations flew that such actions by President Trump represent a glaring “conflict of interest”. A video from takethisviral shows Trump expressing his intents.
He said: “I’m going to buy, and I’m going to buy because number one, it’s a great product, as good as it gets. And number two, because this man has devoted his energy and his life to doing this, so I think he’s being treated very unfairly by a very small group of people.
“I just want people to know that you can’t be penalised for being a patriot, and he’s a great patriot. He’s also done an incredible job with Tesla.”
He also lauded Musk for being “very successful”, and suggested America will grow “strong” due to some of his actions. Despite the President’s commendations for Musk, not everyone is on board with his approach.
One individual remarked: “This seems like a huge conflict of interest.” Another commented: “So the President of the United States is now a car salesman?”
A third chimed in with: “Sorry, but Trump advertising for Tesla is going to backfire. Tesla sales will ironically decrease after Trump’s endorsement.”
However, some voices were in support, with one person hailing the President as the “greatest ever”. Another praised the President, asserting that Musk “has his back”.
Lately, Tesla has faced global criticism as Musk’s political influence grows. His involvement in slashing government roles and endorsing far-right beliefs is said to have impacted the company negatively.
Since Musk visited Washington, Tesla’s stock has been on a downward trend each week, plummeting 15% on Monday before making a recovery on Tuesday. Tesla sites have also been targeted by both peaceful protests and acts of vandalism, including fires at charging stations.
In response to whether his endorsement might boost Tesla’s shares, the President stated: “I hope it does.”
