In an unexpected move, legendary entertainer Bette Midler has celebrated the sale of her Tesla, citing the electric vehicle as a symbol of everything she stands against: “racism, greed, and ignorance.” The 79-year-old star, known for her environmental advocacy and outspoken liberal views, made her feelings about the car brand clear on social media.
“What a joyful day!” Midler shared with her followers on Instagram and Bluesky. “I sold my (gulp) Tesla!” The post quickly grabbed attention, as Midler revealed her decision to part ways with the electric car after years of ownership.
While Tesla has long been hailed for its contributions to sustainable energy and innovation, Midler’s decision to sell her vehicle has sparked widespread discussion. Her rationale for getting rid of her car was tied directly to her disdain for the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, and his association with far-right political movements and actions that have drawn significant criticism.
The Backlash Against Musk: Why Midler Said Goodbye to Tesla
Midler’s decision to sell her Tesla is rooted in her criticism of Musk’s public persona and his involvement in U.S. politics. Musk has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, and his activism in the political arena—especially his contributions to Trump’s re-election efforts and the political agenda that followed—has made Tesla a target for those who oppose his far-right messaging. Midler, no stranger to political controversy, voiced her discontent with Musk’s actions and said she could no longer support a company tied to his ideologies.
Musk’s political spending, including a $3 billion donation to support Trump’s re-election and the Republican agenda, was particularly upsetting to Midler, who has long been a fierce advocate for liberal causes. Her criticisms of Musk have only intensified in recent months, especially after his increasingly political stance.
For Midler, getting rid of her Tesla wasn’t just about the car—it was about making a stand. She stated, “Life is so much better!!!” following her decision to sell the vehicle, highlighting how her life had improved by cutting ties with Tesla and Musk. Her outspoken criticism of the Tesla CEO and the company on social media only deepened as Musk’s political activities grew more prominent.
Midler Isn’t Alone: Other Celebrities Take a Stand
Midler is not the only celebrity who has distanced themselves from Musk and his company. In February, Grammy-winning artist Sheryl Crow also made headlines for selling her Tesla, with plans to donate the proceeds to NPR. Crow’s decision came with a message about integrity and personal alignment, as she wrote on Instagram, “There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to align with. So long, Tesla.”
Celebrities like Midler and Crow are not just leaving behind the cars; they are signaling a broader shift in public perception of the company. The focus on Musk’s political involvement has caused a number of Tesla owners to rethink their connection to the brand. Some have even taken to modifying their cars to hide their Tesla make and model, fearing the stigma attached to being associated with Musk’s controversial views.
Tesla’s Fallout: Vandalism and Stock Decline
The backlash against Tesla is not confined to social media. Around the world, Tesla vehicles and dealerships have become targets of vandalism. Cars have been spray-painted, set on fire, and defaced by people protesting Musk’s views and actions. This widespread dissent has affected the company’s public image and has even had financial repercussions, with Tesla stock taking a hit as Musk’s involvement in politics became more pronounced.
Musk, for his part, has used his platform to defend his political involvement, including encouraging people to buy Teslas despite the protests. Former President Trump has also weighed in, using his office to publicly support the purchase of Teslas and warning that those who damage or destroy the cars would face severe consequences.
A Divisive Issue: The Impact on Tesla’s Reputation
Bette Midler’s decision to sell her Tesla has ignited a heated debate about the company’s future and its association with Musk’s political leanings. For some, Tesla remains a beacon of innovation and environmental progress, while for others, it has become a symbol of political polarization and corporate greed.
As celebrities like Midler and Crow publicly sever ties with the brand, it’s clear that Tesla’s relationship with Musk’s public persona could have long-term effects on its reputation. With its stronghold on the electric vehicle market and sustainability efforts, Tesla remains a leader in its field—but as the public continues to scrutinize Musk’s political stance, the question remains: can Tesla separate itself from its controversial CEO and regain its appeal among those who feel alienated by his actions?
The drama surrounding Musk’s influence on Tesla is far from over, and as more people speak out against the company’s ties to his political activities, the future of the brand could be at a crossroads. Whether or not the backlash will affect Tesla’s sales or stock prices remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—the public’s perception of Musk and his empire is shifting, and the spotlight is shining brighter than ever on the CEO behind the wheel of the electric revolution.
