Elon Musk concluded Tesla’s latest earnings call with a fiery defense of his proposed $1 trillion compensation package, dismissing proxy advisory firms as “corporate terrorists” and accusing them of undermining shareholder interests. Speaking in the final moments of the call, Musk framed the vote not as a matter of pay, but of control over Tesla’s future direction in AI, robotaxis, and humanoid robotics. He argued that maintaining a “mid-20s” percentage of voting power is essential for him to steer the company through its next phase, while still remaining accountable—“fireable if I go insane,” he joked. Musk expressed frustration over what he sees as undue influence by firms like ISS and Glass Lewis, which have recommended shareholders oppose the package. The proposed deal, if approved by shareholders on November 6, would reward Musk with up to $1 trillion in stock based on a series of ambitious performance targets. These include growing Tesla’s market value to $8.5 trillion, selling 12 million vehicles and one million humanoid robots, launching a million robotaxis, and increasing adjusted earnings from $16.6 billion in 2024 to $400 billion. If the package passes, Musk’s stake in Tesla could rise from 13% to nearly 29%, significantly boosting his influence. Tesla’s board has warned that rejection could lead Musk to reduce his involvement or even exit the company entirely. ISS and Glass Lewis have urged investors to vote against the proposal, citing concerns over excessive risk and concentration of power. However, supporters like Cathie Wood of Ark Invest believe the package will pass decisively. The dispute over Musk’s pay is not new. Last year, a Delaware judge invalidated his original 2018 compensation plan—then valued at $56 billion—ruling the board had been improperly influenced by Musk during approval. Tesla later sought shareholder re-approval, launching a major campaign with ads and direct outreach. Critics continue to question whether such a massive incentive package gives Musk too much control with too little accountability, especially as he expands into AI and robotics. Some argue these ventures may distract from Tesla’s core electric vehicle business. Musk, however, remains defiant, asserting that the current system of proxy advisory influence is flawed and should be reformed. He called for these firms to be registered as investment advisors, noting they lack actual ownership in the companies they advise and often vote based on political or ideological lines rather than shareholder value.