Musk has responded furiously to claims that Tesla is searching for a new CEO to replace him.
A report from *The Wall Street Journal* on April 30 alleged that Tesla had contacted executive search firms to begin the process of finding a successor.
The outlet claimed the search began a month ago, citing concerns over declining sales and profits.
The report also mentioned Musk’s increasing involvement in other ventures, including his role in Donald Trump’s government.
Many interpreted the situation as a sign that Tesla’s board might want a leader more focused on the company’s core operations.
Tesla board denies CEO replacement rumors and reaffirms support for Elon Musk
Tesla responded swiftly and strongly to deny the claims published by “The Wall Street Journal”
Board chair Robyn Denholm posted a public rebuttal via the company’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.
She wrote that the story was “absolutely false” and that this denial had already been shared with the media before publication.
Denholm reaffirmed Elon Musk’s position as CEO and expressed confidence in his leadership and the company’s growth trajectory.
The statement emphasized that there is no CEO search underway and that the board remains united behind Musk.
Elon Musk calls report a ‘deliberately false article’ and attacks journalistic ethics
Elon Musk responded personally, reposting Denholm’s message with his own outraged commentary.
He accused *The Wall Street Journal* of publishing a “DELIBERATELY FALSE ARTICLE” without including the company’s pre-submitted denial.
Musk called the report “an EXTREMELY BAD BREACH OF ETHICS” and implied it was intended to mislead readers.
“It is an EXTREMELY BAD BREACH OF ETHICS that the @WSJ would publish a DELIBERATELY FALSE ARTICLE and fail to include an unequivocal denial beforehand by the Tesla board of directors!” he slammed.
He used capital letters throughout the post, signaling his anger and frustration with the outlet’s editorial process.
His reaction reflects ongoing tensions between Musk and traditional media organizations, which he often criticizes publicly.
Reports suggested Musk might spend more time at Tesla amid concerns about distractions
The original article claimed Tesla board members had urged Musk to increase his involvement at the company.
While Musk confirmed during Tesla’s Q1 earnings call that he would focus more on Tesla, SpaceX, and X.
he also noted that his time with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would decrease significantly.
The *WSJ* story suggested this shift might be tied to internal concerns about his divided attention and recent political involvement.
However, it remained unclear whether Musk had been fully aware of any succession planning discussions.
Donald Trump praises Elon Musk for government reform efforts and hints at future cooperation
Adding to the political context, Donald Trump commented publicly on Musk’s role within the government.
Trump stated that Musk, acting as a senior advisor and de facto leader of DOGE, had “sacrificed a lot.”
He also said that Musk would have a place in his future administration “for as long as he wants.”
This endorsement could further complicate perceptions of Musk’s focus, especially among Tesla investors.
Nevertheless, Trump’s remarks reflect strong support for Musk’s efforts to streamline the federal government.
