GOP Warms to Musk, But Not EVs
Republicans' favorable views of Elon Musk are increasing, but their stance on electric vehicles remains largely negative.
EV & Transportation Policy
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3 min
Republicans' opinions of Elon Musk have significantly improved, with favorable views doubling from 35% to 70% over a year. However, this newfound affection for Musk does not extend to his company, Tesla, or the broader electric vehicle (EV) industry. According to a survey by the bipartisan lobbying group EV Politics, only 15% of Republicans view EVs favorably, while 48% hold unfavorable views.
The Shift in Opinion
Elon Musk, a longtime supporter of President Donald Trump, has become a more popular figure among Republicans. Favorable views of Musk increased from 35% to 70%, while unfavorable views dropped from 19% to 10% between November 2023 and November 2024.
Despite this positive shift, Republicans remain largely opposed to EVs. The survey found that 48% of Republicans have unfavorable views of EVs, with only 15% viewing them favorably. Thirty-eight percent have mixed views on EVs, indicating a complex sentiment towards the technology.
Why the Disconnect?
The disconnect between Republicans' views of Musk and EVs can be attributed to several factors. While Musk is seen as a successful entrepreneur and industry leader, many Republicans still view EVs as a threat to traditional automotive jobs and industries. This perception is exacerbated by President Trump's efforts to roll back EV policies and subsidies.
Musk’s recent focus on other ventures, such as Twitter and space exploration, has also led to speculation that he is not actively working to change Republican attitudes towards EVs. The report suggests that Musk’s efforts to break down Republican hostility towards EVs are currently low on his priority list.
Policy Shifts Under Trump
President Trump has moved quickly to dismantle pro-EV policies introduced under his predecessor, Joe Biden. Shortly after taking office, Trump declared a "national energy emergency" and scrapped what he called the "electric vehicle mandate," a federal rule requiring automakers to cut greenhouse gas emissions by half starting in 2027.
On Thursday, the administration halted a $5 billion program aimed at expanding EV charging stations on highways. Other incentives for EV adoption, such as consumer tax credits, are also under review. These moves align with Trump’s campaign promises to roll back regulations perceived as harmful to traditional energy sectors.
Industry Response
Automakers are taking notice of the growing divide between Republican voters and EVs. Ads like the one run by Jeep during the Super Bowl attempt to bridge this gap by promoting choice and freedom. Olivier Francois, global chief marketing officer of Stellantis (parent company of Jeep), noted that people want options and choices.
However, Mike Murphy, founder of EV Politics and a veteran Republican strategist, points out that Democrats continue to buy EVs at a much higher rate than Republicans. Democrats have favorable views of EVs, with 78% expressing openness to going electric and only 13% holding unfavorable views of EV brands like Tesla.
The Path Forward
Despite the current divide, there are signs that Republicans are gradually becoming more open to EVs. The share of Americans who view Musk positively and are considering buying an EV has risen from 24% to 43% over the same period.
Murphy suggests that the key to wider EV adoption is selling more EVs to Republicans. While Musk has the standing and tools to help with this mission, the presence of a "Red Wall"—a significant barrier to mass EV adoption—remains a challenge. With Trump continuing to criticize EVs, it’s unlikely that this barrier will be easily overcome.
Sources & Fact-Check
Survey by EV Politics : Highlights the shift in Republican opinions of Musk and EVs, noting the disconnect between favorable views of Musk and unfavorable views of EVs.
Jeep Super Bowl Ad : Reflects the automaker’s attempt to promote choice and freedom, appealing to Republican values.
