In the public meeting, Tim Walz mocked Tesla’s stock decline as Elon Musk responded amid his company facing increasing backlash.
Tesla stocks have dropped by 42% since the start of 2025
Tesla is facing troubling times. The electric vehicle company was thriving after President Donald Trump’s return to the White House. However, stock prices have plummeted due to various factors.
While Tesla faced a shocking drop, Elon Musk’s leadership is facing increasing backlash.
Elon Musk’s position as CEO has come under scrutiny. He’s faced both online and in-person criticism for staying involved with Tesla.
In addition, the company has had to contend with a 25% vehicle tariff imposed by the U.S. government.
Moreover, it has been overtaken by BYD, a competitor in the electric vehicle market.
As if that weren’t enough, Tesla has also dealt with $1.4 billion in missing funds. Some investors have gone so far as to call for Musk’s removal as CEO.
In fact, faith in Musk’s leadership has been questioned, especially after his brother was spotted selling Tesla stock.
Additionally, Tesla’s stock has dropped by 42% since the beginning of 2025.
While there was a brief boost when Trump showcased Tesla in the White House, overall, the company is at a low point.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz mocks Tesla’s troubles
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota recently mocked Tesla’s situation. At a public meeting, he joked, “They’ve got that little stock app. I added Tesla to it to give me a little boost during the day. 225 and dropping.”
Elon Musk responds to Walz’s mockery
Musk did not take the jibe lightly. In an interview with Fox News, Musk stated, “Think it would help sales if dealerships are being firebombed? Of course not. And Tesla customers are being intimidated all over the country and all over Europe. Does that help Tesla?
“I mean, you have Tim Walz, who’s a huge jerk, running on stage when the Tesla stock price has gone in half, and he was overjoyed.”
Additionally, Musk further criticized Walz, calling him a “huge jerk” and an “evil” person for gloating over Tesla’s misfortune.
The incident escalated as Walz responded with further mockery after Elon Musk replied to him.
Walz didn’t hold back. He replied to Musk’s remarks by joking, saying “Elon, I’ll make you a deal. I’ll stop making fun of your stock when you take your hands off social security.”
Musk’s government role sparks further controversy
Musk’s role in heading the Department of Government Efficiency has also been controversial.
He also faced backlash after he wielded a gilded chainsaw on stage, symbolizing the cuts he was making to government departments. These cuts have left many workers displaced, adding to the criticism he faces.
While, critics express frustration with Musk’s actions.
One critic pointed out Musk’s hypocrisy by referencing a tweet where he wrote, “Go woke, go broke.” Another commenter reminded people of Musk’s past actions, particularly his gleeful display with the chainsaw.
Despite the backlash, Musk remain focused on his goal.
He continues his mission to reduce $2 trillion from government spending.
However, his actions have not earned him much sympathy, especially from those celebrating Tesla’s decline.