Many Tesla owners, once proud to drive a car from a company led by Elon Musk, are now voicing their disappointment with the CEO’s embrace of Donald Trump and his promotion of far-right conspiracies. The growing frustration has led to a surge in sales of anti-Musk stickers and accessories, with slogans like “Anti Elon Tesla Club” and “I Bought This Before Elon Went Crazy.” These products allow Tesla owners to express their disapproval, as they feel increasingly embarrassed to be associated with Musk’s controversial political views. Matt Hiller, a Hawaii-based aquarium worker who sells anti-Musk merchandise, noted a significant spike in sales, particularly after the 2020 U.S. presidential election, when Musk’s support for Trump became more evident.
The Impact on Tesla’s Brand and Future
Despite the backlash, Tesla continues to dominate the electric vehicle market, though some analysts predict the brand could face challenges in the future. Sales in the most recent quarter have been weaker, in part due to increasing competition and a lack of new product releases. The public discontent surrounding Musk’s political involvement might influence Tesla’s image, though its market share has not yet been significantly impacted. Furthermore, Musk’s endorsement of Trump could have further consequences, especially with policies that might reduce incentives for electric vehicle purchases. For now, however, the rise in anti-Musk merchandise shows that many Tesla owners are seeking a way to distance themselves from the CEO’s increasingly divisive political actions.