Tesla chair Robyn Denholm recently addressed reports from the Wall Street Journal claiming that the company was looking for a successor to CEO Elon Musk. Denholm refuted these claims, stating that they were “absolutely false” and that the Tesla Board had not initiated a search for a new CEO. Musk also took to social media to deny the allegations, calling the report a “deliberately false article” and criticizing the Wall Street Journal for their reporting.
The scrutiny surrounding Musk intensified following his new role in U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This has led to politically motivated attacks against Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations across the country. Additionally, Tesla’s net profits saw a significant decrease in the first quarter of 2025, causing concern among investors and stakeholders.
During a town hall event in Wisconsin, Musk briefly addressed the criticism facing Tesla, acknowledging the impact it has had on the company’s stock price. Despite these challenges, Musk remains confident in Tesla’s ability to continue its growth trajectory and execute on its exciting plans for the future.
The Wall Street Journal, founded in 1889, is known for its large circulation and center-right views. However, Musk and others have criticized the publication for what they perceive as biased or inaccurate reporting. Musk referred to the Wall Street Journal as a “discredit to journalism” in a recent social media post.
Overall, the controversy surrounding Tesla and Elon Musk highlights the challenges faced by high-profile companies and individuals in the public eye. Despite the negative press, Musk remains focused on driving innovation and growth at Tesla, reaffirming his commitment to leading the company into the future.