Tesla Shares Stumble as Public Sentiment on Elon Musk Sours

Recent sentiment towards Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, has significantly shifted according to new data. A recent study reveals that 55% of Americans hold negative views of Musk, and 49% have unfavorable opinions about Tesla itself. This perception has affected consumer behavior, with as many as 67% of those surveyed expressing no interest in purchasing or leasing a Tesla vehicle, citing Musk’s influence as a factor.

The survey indicates that Musk’s reputation plays a considerable role in consumers’ decisions against the brand. Specifically, 20% of respondents claim Musk is the sole reason for their disinterest in owning a Tesla, while another 17% regard him as a contributing factor. Contrastingly, only 1% of the participants perceive Musk as a positive influence on their purchasing considerations.

This changing tide follows Musk's previous status, where he was almost revered among his followers, but recent findings suggest a diminishing enthusiasm. When respondents were asked if Musk is the reason for their interest in Tesla, merely 1% associated positively with him. The survey, conducted by Yahoo News and YouGov, involved 1,677 American adults between March 20-24 in 2025, emphasizing an apparent shift in public opinion.

The broader implications of Musk's public perception on Tesla’s market position are worth noting. As it stands, Tesla’s approval mirrors that of its CEO, with 49% of Americans viewing the automaker negatively against 37% with positive sentiments. Moreover, the study reveals skepticism around Musk’s influence on governmental efficiency, with 48% disapproving of his methods, hinting at a perception of self-interest rather than altruistic leadership.

These developments hint at potential challenges for Tesla and Musk in navigating future growth and maintaining consumer confidence in a competitive market. The correlation between public perception of leadership and brand loyalty remains critical, suggesting that Tesla might need strategic adjustments to counteract these prevailing attitudes and bolster its brand image amidst shifting public opinions.