The Take ‘Tesla Takedown’: How Elon Musk's Trump alliance is triggering backlash
Mar 21, 2025
Elon Musk's alliance with Donald Trump has sparked widespread backlash against Tesla, leading to boycotts, protests, and even attacks on showrooms. Activists are challenging corporate influence on democracy, demanding accountability from powerful figures. Tensions escalate as Musk's confrontational approach with the media worsens public perception and impacts Tesla's stock. Meanwhile, President Trump labels the backlash as domestic terrorism, revealing the complex intersection of politics, activism, and consumer sentiment in today's landscape.
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Email Exchange with Musk
- Bobby Allyn had a long email exchange with Elon Musk about NPR's coverage.
- Musk jokingly threatened to sell NPR and later emailed Allyn "You suck."
Tesla Backlash
- Elon Musk's political stances are hurting Tesla's brand image and sales.
- Many Tesla owners now feel their car represents an endorsement of Musk's views.
White House Tesla Promotion
- Trump used the White House lawn to promote Tesla due to the company's declining stock.
- This was in response to attacks on Tesla property, which Trump labeled "domestic terrorism."