President Trump recently climbed into a Tesla Model S and pledged to buy one. The next day, Fox News host Sean Hannity announced he had purchased a Model S Plaid to show support for the company, highlighting that a Tesla contains more American parts than any other car made in the country.
In response to criticisms of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, some prominent conservatives are coming to the defense of the electric car company, hoping to attract like-minded consumers to counter a boycott by liberals and Democrats offended by Musk’s actions.
Although this rescue mission may have some effect, analysts believe it will only go so far.
Despite efforts to sway new customers, many Democratic buyers are turning away from Tesla, making it unlikely that even President Trump’s endorsement will be enough to fill the gap, leading to a predicted decrease in car deliveries in the first quarter compared to the past three years.
“When you alienate half of your market, you won’t see an increase in sales,” said Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision, an automotive research and consulting firm.