Tesla’s letter to the U.S. Trade Representative opposing tariff policies does not equate to Musk "backstabbing" Trump. This action is more about Tesla’s routine lobbying driven by business interests, not a breakdown in their relationship.
In the letter, Tesla stated that the Trump administration’s tariff policies threatened its profits and urged trade representatives to consider the "downstream impacts" of these policies. This reflects Tesla’s demands as a multinational corporation to protect global supply chains and export competitiveness, which aligns with standard corporate lobbying practices. Similarly, Musk’s SpaceX also joined the lobbying effort, showing that the goal was not to target Trump personally but to secure a more favorable trade environment.
Despite the tariff dispute, Trump and Musk continue collaborating in multiple areas. For example, the Trump administration reduced regulatory pressure on Tesla (e.g., easing investigations into autonomous driving) to support the company. Their relationship leans more toward a "quid pro quo" rather than outright opposition.
Trump bolstered Musk’s market confidence by purchasing Tesla stock, publicly endorsing the company to boost its share price, and labeling violent acts against Tesla as "domestic terrorism."
Musk served as head of the "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) under the Trump administration, leading efforts to cut federal spending and advance Trump’s goal of a "leaner government." Additionally, Musk provided financial support for Trump’s campaigns and is seen as a key ally.
Their relationship, dubbed a "dangerous love affair" by foreign media, is highly pragmatic—for instance, pushing clean energy initiatives and reducing regulatory burdens. However, Musk’s reforms (like mass layoffs) sparked discontent within the Republican Party. Trump once defended Secretary of State Rubio, hinting at curbs on Musk. If Musk’s actions harm Trump’s political interests (e.g., triggering public backlash), Trump might sacrifice Musk to protect his own agenda.
Musk’s alignment with Trump has politicized Tesla’s brand, driving away some consumers over value clashes. Sales in Germany plummeted by 70%, a clear example. While Trump’s support briefly lifted Tesla’s stock, long-term risks of market volatility remain.
Musk’s influential role in the government has caused internal friction, such as power struggles with Secretary Rubio, exposing tensions within Trump’s circle. If compromises on key policies fail, their partnership could collapse.
Tesla’s tariff lobbying represents corporate interest calculations in a complex political landscape, not betrayal of Trump. The Musk-Trump relationship is fundamentally a short-term, interest-driven alliance. They cooperate on shared goals but clash over specific policies. This bond combines mutual benefit with fragility and may shift as political and economic conditions evolve.