1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's promotion of Tesla stock raises significant ethical concerns and appears to violate federal regulations prohibiting the endorsement of private enterprises by government officials. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's comments urging viewers to buy Tesla shares because the stock is "unbelievably cheap" seem to be a clear violation of 5 CFR § 2635.702, which bars government employees from using their public office for private gain or endorsing any product or company. Similarly, President Trump posing with Tesla vehicles on the White House grounds and claiming he would purchase a Model S also gives the appearance of an improper endorsement of a private business. While the government has at times supported specific industries or companies to protect American jobs, the open promotion of a single company's stock by Cabinet members is virtually unprecedented and unethical. It undermines public trust in the impartiality of the administration. These actions raise questions about potential conflicts of interest or quid pro quo arrangements benefiting those with ties to the administration. Regardless of intent, the public is right to be skeptical when an administration provides what amounts to a commercialized stock promotion for a company led by a major political donor. The rules against endorsements exist to maintain ethical boundaries and prevent government leaders from abusing their influence to provide any entity an unfair advantage. By ignoring these regulations, the administration is sending a troubling message that political considerations may take precedence over long-standing ethical norms and principles of good governance. Impartial stewardship of public institutions should be the top priority.