The Tesla board has quietly initiated a search for Elon Musk’s successor as CEO, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Citing people familiar with the matter, the report says multiple executive search firms have been approached to find a suitable candidate who can steer the EV giant through its mounting challenges.
Musk’s divided focus sparks concern
The reported move comes at a time when Tesla is grappling with a sharp 71% decline in quarterly profits and weakening global sales, particularly in California, Germany, and China. The board’s concern reportedly grew after Musk began spending most of his time in Washington, where he was appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by President Donald Trump. The role involves overseeing federal spending and improving departmental productivity.
The board had previously urged Musk to refocus on Tesla, warning that his divided attention could damage the company's future. Musk had responded by promising investors during an earnings call: “Starting next month, I’ll be allocating far more of my time to Tesla.”
Trump hints at Musk’s return to Tesla
During a recent cabinet meeting, Trump hinted that Musk may soon be stepping away from his White House duties. “You’re invited to stay as long as you want... I guess he wants to get back home to his cars,” he said, fueling speculation that Musk’s White House stint may be nearing an end.
However, it remains unclear how involved Musk is in the search for his replacement, or whether he approved of the move, despite sitting on Tesla’s board himself.
Internal tensions and public backlash
Musk’s closeness to Trump, including a reported $250 million donation to Trump’s campaign, has alienated some Tesla employees and customers, particularly after Trump renewed his anti-EV rhetoric and vowed to revive fossil fuel industries.
Internally, staff reportedly sought reassurance that Musk remains committed to Tesla’s clean energy mission. Externally, Tesla's brand appeal has taken a hit, with drivers in progressive states putting stickers on their vehicles distancing themselves from Musk's political stance.
Adding to the company’s woes, the much-hyped Cybertruck has become a frequent subject of online mockery over its design.
Social media erupts with speculation and memes
The WSJ report triggered a wave of reactions online, with memes, sarcasm, and speculation flooding X (formerly Twitter). One user wrote, “Everything Trump touches dies. Tesla is looking for a new CEO. Musk may be out of a job with Tesla. It couldn't have happened to a more deserving m**on.”
Another commented, “This explains why investors didn’t receive the Tesla 2025 shareholders meeting filing.”
Some believe Musk is orchestrating his own succession. “For those of you dumb enough to think this happens without @elonmusk’s blessing, I have a sh**coin to sell you,” a user quipped. Others were less convinced, simply declaring: “Tesla is nothing without Elon Musk.”
Musk’s divided focus sparks concern
The reported move comes at a time when Tesla is grappling with a sharp 71% decline in quarterly profits and weakening global sales, particularly in California, Germany, and China. The board’s concern reportedly grew after Musk began spending most of his time in Washington, where he was appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by President Donald Trump. The role involves overseeing federal spending and improving departmental productivity.
The board had previously urged Musk to refocus on Tesla, warning that his divided attention could damage the company's future. Musk had responded by promising investors during an earnings call: “Starting next month, I’ll be allocating far more of my time to Tesla.”
Trump hints at Musk’s return to Tesla
During a recent cabinet meeting, Trump hinted that Musk may soon be stepping away from his White House duties. “You’re invited to stay as long as you want... I guess he wants to get back home to his cars,” he said, fueling speculation that Musk’s White House stint may be nearing an end.
However, it remains unclear how involved Musk is in the search for his replacement, or whether he approved of the move, despite sitting on Tesla’s board himself.
Internal tensions and public backlash
Musk’s closeness to Trump, including a reported $250 million donation to Trump’s campaign, has alienated some Tesla employees and customers, particularly after Trump renewed his anti-EV rhetoric and vowed to revive fossil fuel industries.
Internally, staff reportedly sought reassurance that Musk remains committed to Tesla’s clean energy mission. Externally, Tesla's brand appeal has taken a hit, with drivers in progressive states putting stickers on their vehicles distancing themselves from Musk's political stance.
Adding to the company’s woes, the much-hyped Cybertruck has become a frequent subject of online mockery over its design.
Social media erupts with speculation and memes
The WSJ report triggered a wave of reactions online, with memes, sarcasm, and speculation flooding X (formerly Twitter). One user wrote, “Everything Trump touches dies. Tesla is looking for a new CEO. Musk may be out of a job with Tesla. It couldn't have happened to a more deserving m**on.”
Another commented, “This explains why investors didn’t receive the Tesla 2025 shareholders meeting filing.”
Some believe Musk is orchestrating his own succession. “For those of you dumb enough to think this happens without @elonmusk’s blessing, I have a sh**coin to sell you,” a user quipped. Others were less convinced, simply declaring: “Tesla is nothing without Elon Musk.”
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