In a controversial display, President Donald Trump and Elon Musk showcased Tesla cars in front of the White House, igniting significant alarm across Washington, D.C. Many observers view this event as a potential infomercial for Musk's billion-dollar car company, taking place on high-profile government property. Ethics experts consulted by ABC News have raised serious concerns that this event might blur the lines of what is considered proper conduct for elected officials.
According to William F. Hall, an adjunct professor of political science at Webster University, some might reasonably interpret the event as a signal that the White House and the President's endorsement are available for purchase. “The optics of this event raise questions about the integrity of presidential endorsements,” Hall remarked. This controversial showcase occurred just hours after Trump announced his intention to purchase a Tesla, following the company’s mass protests, which have contributed to a significant decline in its stock value and global sales.
When pressed by reporters about the implications of the event, Trump did not shy away from admitting that he was there to support Musk's financial interests. “I think he's been treated very unfairly by a very small group of people. And I just want people to know that he can't be penalized for being a patriot,” Trump stated, praising Musk for his contributions to Tesla. He added that Musk had not solicited any favors from him. In a show of gratitude, Musk later expressed his thanks to Trump on social media platform X.
Delaney Marsco, Director of Ethics for the Campaign Legal Center, a non-profit legal organization, highlighted the lack of ethical regulations governing presidential behavior. “Ethics laws mainly focus on executive employees serving under the president, not the president himself,” she explained, noting that the framers of these laws did not foresee a president disregarding established ethical norms. “One of the things we have relied on in ethics norms are the norms about what is right. President Trump doesn't abide by those norms,” Marsco added.
Marsco pointed out that Musk's ambiguous role as a presidential advisor, coupled with his position as CEO of companies that conduct business with the government, exacerbates the ethical issues surrounding Tuesday's event. She expressed concern that shareholders and the general public might be confused by this blurred line between business and government. “I’m sure shareholders are concerned about this line being blurred, and it’s equally confusing for the public,” she said.
While Tesla's stock had experienced a downturn in recent weeks, it saw a slight uptick after Trump inspected Musk's vehicles at the White House. Hall noted that Tesla and Musk have faced backlash due to their actions and statements since Musk's increasing involvement with Trump. The president claimed he intended to purchase one of the cars at full price for the White House staff, but as of Wednesday evening, no confirmation had been provided regarding whether this transaction took place.
Experts warn that this event could set a troubling precedent for future presidents, potentially undermining the objectivity of the executive branch. “The federal government isn't in the business of endorsing products. It should focus on making policy decisions that improve the lives of the American public, not endorsing products that benefit the president’s friends or donors,” Marsco stated.
Marsco emphasized that while there is currently nothing preventing Trump—or any future president—from making ethically questionable decisions, lawmakers have the power to strengthen the rules governing the executive branch. “When you start discussing ethics, some people may not fully grasp the laws involved, but the public isn't naive,” she said. “They understand what constitutes a conflict of interest, and they know that the role of the president should not include endorsing a product linked to a friend or major political donor.”
