In a recent show of support, President Trump announced that he had plans to purchase a new Tesla car, aiming to boost Elon Musk amidst the escalating challenges faced by the electric car manufacturer. The announcement follows a series of events that have placed both Musk and Tesla under intense scrutiny. In the first quarter of 2025, Tesla delivered 336,681 vehicles, reflecting a 13% decline compared to the same period the previous year, when 387,000 vehicles were delivered.

The decline in sales has been attributed to several key factors. One major issue is Tesla’s ageing product line-up, which has left consumers underwhelmed in a fast-moving EV market filled with new competitors. Another contributing factor is the public backlash against Elon Musk’s increasing involvement in political debates and his outspoken personal statements, which have divided public opinion. Industry data from automotive associations and analyst estimates show a noticeable downturn in Tesla sales across key global markets including the United States, China, and Europe during the first two months of 2025.

Musk’s close and publicly visible association with President Trump has only intensified the controversy. This alliance has triggered widespread boycotts and protests from consumers and activist groups. Reports indicate that over 200 Tesla showrooms across the globe have been affected by demonstrations, with protesters calling on potential customers to avoid purchasing Tesla vehicles and urging investors to divest from the company’s stock altogether.

In response to the backlash, President Trump came forward in defence of Musk and Tesla, even appearing alongside the Tesla CEO at the White House. As part of his show of support, Trump announced his intention to buy a Tesla Model S, stating, “I’m going to buy a brand new Tesla tomorrow morning as a show of confidence and support for Elon Musk, a truly great American.” His comments sparked mixed reactions across political and business circles, with some praising his loyalty and others questioning the motivations behind the endorsement.

Tesla, for its part, has hinted at plans to launch a more affordable model based on its existing platform later this year, though no official specifications or pricing details have been released. The company is also still grappling with issues stemming from the launch of the Cybertruck, which debuted in late 2023. Although initially generating massive online hype, the vehicle has seen limited demand due to its unconventional design and persistent quality concerns, ultimately leading to a number of recalls.

Most recently, Tesla issued a recall affecting nearly all Cybertruck models produced in 2024 and 2025 due to safety-related issues. This latest development adds to a growing list of complications the company is facing as it attempts to steady itself in a competitive and often unforgiving automotive market.

Adding to the pressure, legislative proposals in several U.S. states, including New York, aim to revoke Tesla’s direct sales permits. If successful, these efforts would force Tesla to overhaul its retail model and operate through traditional car dealerships, a strategy Elon Musk has long resisted in favor of maintaining a direct-to-consumer relationship.

As Tesla continues to navigate these mounting challenges, Trump’s endorsement highlights the increasingly blurred lines between business and politics. The relationship between Elon Musk and Donald Trump serves as a reminder of how political alliances can influence consumer behavior, investor sentiment, and a brand’s global image. Whether this public show of support will reverse Tesla’s declining momentum or further deepen its controversies remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: the company is at a critical crossroads.