A recent event where President Donald Trump showcased Tesla cars in front of the White House with Elon Musk has raised ethical concerns. Critics view the event as an infomercial for Musk’s company on government property. Ethics experts have questioned whether this act blurs the lines of appropriate conduct for elected officials. William F. Hall, an adjunct professor at Webster University, expressed concerns that such actions might suggest the White House’s endorsement is for sale. Trump stated he was supporting Musk, who he described as a great patriot and successful entrepreneur, despite Musk not asking for assistance. Hall noted that while presidents often support American companies, such support is typically provided outside the White House. Delaney Marsco of the Campaign Legal Center pointed out that current ethics laws primarily focus on executive employees rather than the president himself, attributing this to assumptions about presidential norms. Marsco highlighted concerns over Musk’s role as a presidential adviser and CEO of companies doing business with the government. Tesla’s stock saw a slight increase after the event, though it had previously declined. The ethics experts warned that this precedent could diminish the impartiality of the executive branch. — news from ABC News
