- Trump Sparks Tesla Culture War as Stock Plunges Amid Backlash
Former President Donald Trump has thrust Tesla into the heart of the ongoing MAGA culture wars, vowing to buy one of the electric vehicles after backlash over Elon Musk’s reported involvement in his potential administration.
Tesla shares took a significant hit on Monday, as reports of Musk’s ties to Trump’s campaign angered a portion of the public, leading to widespread calls for boycotts. Concerns among existing Tesla owners have also grown, with many fearing potential vandalism and harassment due to the political controversy surrounding the automaker.
In response to the stock drop and backlash, Trump attempted to turn Tesla into a MAGA symbol, announcing his plans to purchase one himself. “Going to buy one tomorrow,” Trump declared, in an apparent attempt to rally his supporters around the embattled brand.
The controversy stems from Musk’s rumored role in advising or even holding a position in a potential second Trump administration. This has triggered a sharp divide among consumers, with some conservatives now embracing Tesla as a symbol of Trump-aligned values, while many others distance themselves from the brand.
The fallout adds to Tesla’s growing struggles, including increased competition in the EV market and Musk’s own polarizing public persona. Whether Trump’s endorsement will boost Tesla sales or further alienate customers remains to be seen, but the battle over the brand’s identity is now firmly entrenched in the political arena.
