President Donald Trump shopped for a new Tesla on the White House driveway on Tuesday, selecting a shiny red sedan to show his support for Elon Musk 's electric vehicle company as it faces blowback because of his work to advance the president's political agenda and downsize the federal government. "Wow," Trump said as he eased his way into the drivers seat of a Model S. "That's beautiful.
" Musk got in on the passenger side and joked about "giving the Secret Service a heart attack" as they talked about how to start a vehicle that can reach 60 miles per hour in a few seconds. Trump told reporters that he would write a check for the car, which retails for roughly $80,000, and leave it at the White House so his staff can drive it. The president also said he hopes his purchase will boost Tesla's fortunes.
"It's a great product," he said. Referring to Musk, Trump said "we have to celebrate him." It was the latest — and most unusual — example of how Trump has demonstrated loyalty to Musk, who spent heavily on his comeback campaign last year and has been a key figure in his second administration.
Musk is leading Trump's efforts to overhaul federal agencies and reduce the workforce. The Republican president announced on social media early Tuesday that he was going to buy a new Tesla as "a show of confidence and support for Elon Musk, a truly great American." Musk continues to run Tesla — as well as the social media platform X and the rocket manufacturer SpaceX — while also ser.
