Navigating Controversy: The Impact of Political Statements on Space Contracts

Elon Musk is quietly shifting his tone on Donald Trump after weeks of backlash triggered a rare internal warning from Tesla’s board of directors. Public criticism surged following Musk’s prominent role in Trump’s second administration, and for the first time in years, Tesla’s leadership told Musk directly that his political behavior was damaging the company. Multiple people familiar with the matter said the board told Musk he would need to walk back his statements about Trump—and fast—or risk losing his position.