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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz Comments on Tesla’s Stock Decline
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a member of the Democratic Party, stirred up a conversation around Tesla’s recent stock market challenges with his comments. During a town hall in Rochester, Minnesota, he addressed previous remarks he made that were perceived as mocking Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk.
Governor Walz humorously characterized Musk as a pervasive annoyance in his life, stating, “This guy bugs me in a way that’s probably unhealthy.” His comments provided insight into his feelings about the tech billionaire, but he quickly attempted to clarify that he meant his statements in jest. “I have to be careful about being a smarta–. I was making a joke. These people have no sense of humor. They are the most literal people,” he remarked.
Understanding the Context of the Comments
The comments emerged after Walz made a quip about Tesla’s stock performance while speaking at an event in Wisconsin. He noted, “Some of you know this. On the iPhone, they’ve got that little stock app. I added Tesla to it to give me a little boost during the day — $225 and dropping.” His joking tone suggested incredulity at the company’s staggering stock decline, stating, “And if you own one, we’re not blaming you. You can take dental floss and pull the Tesla thing off.” This lighthearted approach, however, drew significant reactions.
The Current State of Tesla’s Stock
As of March 2023, Tesla’s stock had plummeted by 41.4% year-to-date, reflecting broader concerns about the electric vehicle market and economic stability. The decline has not gone unnoticed, sparking discussions among investors and analysts about the company’s future.
A Ripple Effect of Criticism
In the backdrop of Walz’s remarks, local protests against Tesla have escalated, with reports of vandalism incidents targeting Tesla vehicles. These actions are rooted in protests against Musk’s association with former President Donald Trump’s administration. The reactions illustrate the extent of division surrounding Musk and the company he leads.
Walz’s criticism extended beyond mere commentary on stock prices. He expressed frustration towards Musk’s role in advocating for cuts in the federal workforce through his position in the Department of Government Efficiency, also known by the acronym DOGE. This initiative has faced backlash, with critics arguing it threatens vital services and jobs.
Expanded Concerns of Disrespect
During his remarks, Walz emphasized a disconnect he perceives between Musk’s wealth and his treatment of employees, particularly those caring for veterans at the Minneapolis VA.
