Musk’s Political Moves Cost Tesla Its Image and Profits, Expert Warns

Marketing expert Scott Galloway has sharply criticized Elon Musk for politicizing Tesla’s image. Musk’s involvement with the Trump administration and his government reform efforts through DOGE have alienated core customers, Galloway said on the Pivot podcast.

Tesla’s shift away from its green-tech identity has backfired. Most of the political base Musk appeals to—roughly 75%—aren’t interested in EVs. Meanwhile, Tesla’s brand ranking has collapsed, sales in Europe are falling, and profits have dropped 71%. Musk now says he’s stepping away from DOGE, claiming his job is done.