New polling data from CNBC reveals growing public dissatisfaction with Elon Musk and Tesla, as the EV giant posts a staggering 71% drop in quarterly profit.
According to the CNBC All-America Economic Survey published Tuesday, public sentiment toward Elon Musk and Tesla is deteriorating. The results arrive alongside Tesla’s latest Q1 2025 earnings report, which showed a sharp contraction in profitability amid growing macroeconomic and political headwinds.
Poll: 50% of Americans Now View Musk Negatively
Conducted between April 9 and April 12, the CNBC poll found that 50% of U.S. respondents hold a negative opinion of Musk, with only 36% expressing a favorable view. An additional 16% reported feeling neutral toward the SpaceX and Tesla CEO.
When asked about Tesla itself, 47% expressed a negative opinion, while 27% held a positive view. The remaining 24% were neutral, suggesting that sentiment surrounding both Musk and the automaker has cooled significantly since prior years.
“Musk is increasingly polarizing, and Tesla’s brand appears to be tied more than ever to his public image,” said a senior strategist at CNBC.
The decline in perception may be fueled not only by Tesla’s financial woes, but also by Musk’s increasing political activity, including his role as a special government employee under President Donald Trump’s administration, where he heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Tesla Reports 71% Drop in Q1 2025 Profits
The sobering poll results coincided with Tesla’s Q1 2025 earnings report, which revealed a 71% decline in profits compared to the previous year. The company also reported a 9% year-over-year drop in revenue, raising concerns about the company’s growth trajectory and competitive position in the EV market.
In the shareholder letter, Tesla cited multiple headwinds, including:
- Volatile global trade policy
- Rising cost of raw materials
- Weakened consumer demand in key international markets
- Increased geopolitical pressure tied to Musk’s political roles
“Uncertainty in the automotive and energy markets continues to increase as rapidly evolving trade policy adversely impacts the global supply chain and cost structure of Tesla and our peers,” the company said.
Tesla warned that shifting political dynamics and regulatory ambiguity could also depress near-term demand for its vehicles and energy solutions.
Tesla Stock Down Over 40% YTD Amid Business & Image Pressures
Tesla’s stock is now down more than 40% year-to-date, reflecting investor concerns about declining profits, weakening brand sentiment, and increasing vandalism and attacks on Tesla dealerships and charging stations across the country.
Some of these incidents are believed to be politically motivated, occurring in the wake of Musk’s deeper alignment with Trump-backed initiatives, including the America PAC, which has taken strong stances on crypto and deregulation.
Musk Acknowledges Impact of Politics on Tesla Valuation
During a recent town hall event organized by America PAC, Musk addressed the fallout from his political affiliations and how it has impacted his companies and shareholders.
“My Tesla stock, and the stock of everyone who owns Tesla, has roughly halved,” Musk admitted. “I mean, it’s a big deal.”
Musk’s growing presence in U.S. politics has coincided with an erosion in his once-broad tech appeal. Critics argue that his outspoken views on regulation, free speech, and cryptocurrency have alienated key demographics and invited scrutiny from both regulators and the media.
Conclusion: Tesla Faces Crossroads Amid Brand, Business, and Political Turbulence
As Tesla grapples with sinking profits, shrinking market cap, and increased reputational risk, its future now hinges not only on operational execution but also on how Musk’s personal brand intersects with national politics.
The latest CNBC survey indicates that Tesla’s once-pristine reputation is no longer untouchable — and that its CEO’s controversial presence in public life may carry broader consequences for the brand’s long-term viability.
