Minnesota Governor Tim Walz faced backlash after mocking Tesla’s falling stock price, only to watch shares rebound days later. The Democratic governor joked at a town hall that he checks Tesla’s stock for a “little boost” as it dropped to $225, even suggesting owners use dental floss to remove Tesla logos. His comments drew sharp criticism, including from Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who called Walz a “jerk” and “creep” for celebrating the decline.
Walz later claimed he was “making a joke” but faced scrutiny after reports revealed Minnesota’s state pension fund owns 1.6 million Tesla shares. Conservative figures slammed Walz for cheering losses that could hurt retirees and teachers relying on those investments. Investor Kevin O’Leary called the remarks “ridiculously foolish,” pointing out Walz’s own pension ties to Tesla.
Tesla stock soon surged over 20%, hitting $288 per share—a direct reversal of Walz’s taunts. Critics labeled him a hypocrite as the rebound benefited Minnesota’s pensioners. The backlash grew amid nationwide vandalism against Tesla vehicles and charging stations, which the FBI labeled “domestic terrorism.”
Walz, a progressive ally of Vice President Kamala Harris, has long clashed with conservatives over policies like COVID-19 lockdowns and gun control. His latest comments deepened divides, with critics arguing he prioritizes partisan attacks over practical governance. Musk, now leading Trump’s government efficiency efforts, accused Walz of rooting against American workers and innovation.
The incident highlighted growing tensions between Democrats and tech leaders, with Walz becoming a poster child for what conservatives call “anti-business” rhetoric. As Tesla recovers, Walz’s misstep serves as a warning: mocking free-market success often backfires.
