I get it—Tesla is everywhere. Between the sleek designs, whisper-quiet rides, and the lure of being part of a greener future, it’s no surprise so many people want to get in the driver’s seat of one. But let’s pause for a moment. Before you’re dazzled by the promises of tech and innovation, let’s look at the person behind the brand. Elon Musk isn’t just a high-profile billionaire; his actions and choices reflect values that impact us, especially people of color, the working class, and anyone invested in fairness, respect, and inclusion.
Here are ten reasons why I believe supporting Musk is something we should think twice about.
1. Unapologetically Linked to South African Apartheid
Though South Africa has come a long way, apartheid’s legacy is still recent, especially for those who were deeply impacted by it. Musk grew up during that time and, disturbingly, doesn’t shy away from referencing his privilege during that era, often joking about his background or brushing off issues surrounding it. As someone who believes in addressing historical injustices, I find this perspective troubling. Is this really someone who’ll respect our struggles and histories?
2. A Racist Work Culture at Tesla?
It’s hard to ignore the findings of a U.S. anti-discrimination agency that accuses Tesla of “pervasive racial harassment” at its California factory. Tesla, a company that profits from Black and marginalized people as much as anyone else, stands accused of fostering an environment where Black employees are routinely harassed. What’s worse is the alleged retaliation against those who spoke up. Choosing not to support Musk here means standing in solidarity with every worker who has experienced disrespect or worse in the workplace.
3. Dismissing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Musk has been openly anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), openly mocking DEI programs as “divisive.” But for people in Black and marginalized communities, DEI represents hard-won acknowledgment and opportunities. Supporting Musk’s companies undercuts these efforts, erasing pathways and programs that allow us to thrive in workplaces that genuinely value us.
4. An Empire Built on Control and Power, Not Empowerment
Let’s talk about power—Musk has a lot of it. But he wields it in ways that benefit his circle of billionaires while ignoring the needs of everyday people. His decisions impact markets, politics, and even the online spaces we inhabit daily, often making life harder, not easier, for the middle class.
5. Demeaning Women in Positions of Power
Recently, a Musk-funded political action committee released an ad mocking Vice President Kamala Harris, using explicit, sexist language to demean her. It’s one thing to disagree with a politician’s policies; it’s another to degrade them in a derogatory and divisive way. If Musk can’t show basic respect to a Black woman in leadership, why should we believe he’ll respect us?
6. A Disturbing Connection with Trump
It’s no secret that Donald Trump, should he return to office, is considering bringing Musk on board to lead a “government efficiency” committee. This is the same Musk whose mismanagement of Twitter (now X) has led to a 74% value decline. That’s not exactly the leadership I’d want for a government initiative, let alone a critical one.
Related: Elon Musk Asks Voters to Brace for ‘Hardship’
7. Musk’s Take on Social Security—Not For Us
While discussing the “solvency” of Social Security, Musk has hinted at an “overhaul.” But let’s be clear: this is a safety net many middle-class and lower-income Americans rely on. A billionaire controlling something so vital? Sounds like a recipe for “reform” that wouldn’t serve the people it was meant to protect.
8. Pushing for Personal Gain—Not Patriotism
Musk has been vocal about America’s financial struggles while conveniently paying less than 1% in taxes himself. His wealth, largely untaxed, comes from manipulating his company’s stocks, allowing him to pay almost nothing while the rest of us carry the country’s tax burden. He’s more interested in personal gain than doing what’s best for the nation.
9. A Vested Interest in Deregulation
Let’s not ignore Musk’s goals with his immense influence—he wants deregulation. Why? Because fewer rules mean less oversight for him and other billionaires. This affects all of us; deregulation can lead to cut corners, reduced safety, and a diminished quality of life.
10. Supporting Musk Fuels a Potential Trillionaire’s Rise
Every Tesla purchased, every product bought, and every investment in his companies contributes to Musk’s wealth. And as he edges toward becoming a trillionaire, ask yourself—should one person hold that much money and power? Or should we redirect our support toward companies and leaders whose ethics align with ours?
To me, supporting Musk isn’t just about a car choice. It’s a statement of our values. We can decide what’s right by helping brands and leaders who truly value us. Let’s make choices that uplift—not just a few but all of us.
Kim is a Black millennial, working full-time in managed healthcare, all while juggling the roles of a wife and a hands-on mom to her two daughters, her rainbow babies. She is the proud owner of Beauty and the Bump NYC, a platform where she shares her perspective on all the things that bring joy to her life: family, travel, cars, food, and more.
Recognizing the need to create a dedicated space for her automotive content, Kim established WhatDrivesKim.com. Here, fellow millennial moms can find authentic and valuable insights into all things car-related. Kim’s goal is to provide the real deal on cars, helping moms make informed decisions about their vehicles.
As a contributor to A Girl’s Guide to Cars, Kim extends her passion for cars by offering helpful tips and car reviews from the unique perspective of a modern working mom. With Kim, you can trust that you’re getting practical and relatable advice about the world of automobiles.
