Donald Trump says he’ll hang on to his red Tesla Model S—even after a very public fallout with Elon Musk—showing how practicality and political messaging often collide.
At a Glance
- Trump plans to keep his Tesla Model S and continue using Starlink internet
- The car was purchased in March to show support for Elon Musk
- Tensions escalated after Musk criticized Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill”
- Trump has since slammed Musk and threatened to cut EV subsidies
- Despite the rift, Trump has struck a softer tone, saying he wishes Musk well
From Gift to Grievance: Tesla’s Political Role
Former President Donald Trump confirmed he will not part ways with the red Tesla Model S he purchased earlier this year, despite rising tensions with Elon Musk. The electric car, initially intended as a symbolic nod to Musk during a wave of criticism, remains parked at the White House—although Trump joked it may be moved “to one of his many locations.”
He also confirmed that the administration would continue to use Musk’s Starlink internet service, citing its usefulness despite the billionaire’s political attacks. That practical decision underscores how political optics can sometimes yield to operational necessity in the halls of power.
Watch a report: Trump Talks Tesla and Musk Tensions.
From Friends to Foes
The Trump-Musk relationship soured rapidly after Musk denounced the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” Trump’s signature legislative package. The proposal includes broad tax cuts, increased spending, and—critically—eliminates EV subsidies, directly impacting Musk’s Tesla empire.
Trump responded by saying Musk had “gone crazy” after being asked to leave the White House, adding that he revoked Musk’s “EV mandate.” Musk, meanwhile, claimed Trump would have lost the 2024 election without his support, highlighting the messy interdependence between political strategy and corporate influence.
Strategic Symbolism in the Spotlight
Despite the harsh words, Trump’s decision to keep both the Tesla and Starlink services sends a mixed signal. On one hand, he’s criticized Tesla’s performance and threatened to cancel public funding. On the other, retaining these products suggests a strategic calculation—perhaps to avoid alienating Musk-supporting voters or appear open to reconciliation.
“I may move the Tesla around a little bit,” Trump quipped, “but I don’t think we’ll be doing that with Starlink. It’s a good service.”
That softer tone may hint at a political pivot, especially as Trump eyes key tech-leaning conservative demographics ahead of 2026 midterms. It’s also a reminder that in today’s political climate, even a car can become a statement.
