The appearance of trying to influence the value of stocks?

Republican Bob Corker was Mayor of Chattanooga where they landed the new Volkswagen plant currently under construction.  He is also one of the most powerful Senators on the Hill. Is calling a Volkswagen competitor "toast" ethical for such an influential leader with ties to VW? Could it be or appear to be an attempt to influence the value of stocks of both Chrysler and VW? Shouldn't a U.S. Senator be more circumspect and thoughtful in his comments about financial conditions of industry?