Elon Musk has finished dead last in favorability in a recent Gallup poll, which asked Americans to assess 14 world figures. This significant decline in popularity can be attributed to his contentious tenure and the ensuing fallout with President Donald Trump.
What Happened
Musk’s approval ratings have taken a nosedive following his involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency and his warnings about the difficulties under a Trump presidency. His actions have not only tarnished his personal image but have also triggered a substantial decline in Tesla’s sales and revenues.
Gallup Poll Results
The Gallup poll showed that 61% of 1,000 randomly chosen American adults held a negative view of Musk. This represents a 24-point downward swing from his previous favorable rating of 33% to 61% unfavorable. Before starting his White House work, Musk was viewed slightly more negatively than positively (43% favorable, 47% unfavorable).
Comparison to Other World Figures
The poll also revealed a sharp drop in approval ratings for several current and former Trump administration figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Trump. On the other hand, Pope Leo XIV holds a net favorability score of +46, significantly higher than Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (+18) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) (+11).
Implications of Musk’s Plummeting Popularity
The plummeting popularity of Musk, a key figure in the tech and automotive industries, could have far-reaching implications. His controversial actions and the resulting public sentiment could potentially influence consumer behavior and investor confidence, impacting not just Tesla but the broader electric vehicle market. The termination of the federal program involving Musk also raises questions about the future of public-private partnerships in the tech sector.
Other Notable Figures
The poll also showed mixed reviews for French President Emmanuel Macron and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), with a large portion of respondents expressing neutrality. Conversely, personalities like Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were viewed unfavorably.
Conclusion
The decline in Elon Musk’s popularity is a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for the tech and automotive industries. As the situation continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how Musk’s actions and the resulting public sentiment impact consumer behavior and investor confidence.