Trump told reporters he would write a check for the car, which retails for roughly $80,000, and leave it at the White House so his staff can drive it. The president also said he hopes his purchase will boost Tesla,

The federal cost cutting measures undertaken by Musk have spurred "Tesla Takedown" protests with dealerships being vandalized across the nation.

President Donald Trump says he'll buy a Tesla to show support for his adviser Elon Musk, who faces escalating political blowback and financial troubles