President Donald Trump has become the latest Tesla owner to contemplate parting ways with his electric vehicle amid a deteriorating relationship with CEO Elon Musk.
According to a senior official at the White House, Trump is weighing options to either sell or give away his red Model S Tesla, acquired in March. This consideration follows a significant rift between the president and Musk, coming to light shortly after Trump’s public criticism of Musk’s remarks regarding a crucial tax proposal that Trump supports in Congress.
The president purchased the Tesla as a gesture of support toward Musk, who had faced backlash for his involvement in various presidential initiatives, including government budget cuts. At the time of the purchase, Tesla had been the target of numerous criticisms and negative publicity.
However, Trump’s attitude toward Musk shifted dramatically on Thursday, following various statements from the billionaire that criticized Trump’s proposed tax legislation. Trump labeled Musk as “crazy” and indicated he might reconsider federal contracts with Musk’s companies, such as SpaceX.
As of now, the president has yet to reach a definitive conclusion regarding the fate of his Tesla, according to the White House source who relayed the information to NBC News.
The vehicle remains stationed outside the White House, with images circulating on social media. Margo Martin, a special assistant to Trump, shared a picture featuring herself and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt inside the Tesla just last week.
