Tesla has publicly acknowledged that these political activities, largely supporting the Republican party which is described as openly anti-EV, have negatively impacted its business. The company has reported billions in lost revenue directly attributed to actions taken by politicians Musk has supported. These actions have also led to a negative public perception of Tesla, a decline in international sales, and protests in various countries.

Despite the acknowledged damage to Tesla's reputation and financial performance, Musk has continued and even accelerated his political spending. Tesla's quarterly reports and government filings have repeatedly cited the harm caused by Musk's political engagement. The company's board and shareholders have continued to permit these actions, even as they affect the company's profitability and shareholder value.

Musk's political stance has shifted from Tesla's earlier nonpartisan approach, which focused on the benefits of its products, to actively supporting specific political parties and their platforms. This shift has been characterized as outwardly one-sided and has extended to wedge issues unrelated to his businesses. The article suggests that these actions are driven by personal benefit rather than the company's well-being.