Tesla shareholders voted on Thursday to ratify CEO Elon Musk's substantial 2018 pay plan, despite a Delaware judge's order five months ago to rescind it, citing improper board approval. The vote, held during Tesla's annual meeting in Austin, Texas, did not override the court ruling but served as a public relations win for Musk and may aid his future efforts to secure his performance options.

After announcing the preliminary results, Musk enthusiastically addressed the shareholders, saying, "I just want to start by saying hot d---! I love you guys."