Introduction

The American government's approach to Tesla, a company that has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, has been increasingly contentious. The current political landscape, marked by a strong bias against Tesla, particularly among those in the automotive industry, remains a central topic of discussion. This article seeks to unravel the complexities behind the perceived hostility towards Tesla, exploring the underlying factors that contribute to this opposition.

Political Alignment and Union Affiliation

The dominant political force, the Blue Team, enjoys significant support from trade unions and government employee unions. This alignment often leads to preferential treatment for industries that align with union priorities. Tesla, a non-union entity, finds itself at a disadvantage in a landscape where unions wield considerable influence. The irony of this situation was starkly highlighted during the early weeks of the Biden Administration. At a Rose Garden Ceremony, manufacturers of electric vehicles were celebrated with full press coverage, yet Tesla, which had already delivered over 2 million all-electric vehicles by Q2 2022, was notably absent. When this discrepancy was challenged, the press secretary responded by stating that only manufacturers with union contracts were invited. This response, while technically accurate, underscores the bias within the political system.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

One might argue that certain figures within the political and business spheres have engaged in activities that blur the lines between legal and ethical behavior. For instance, the actions of Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, often attract scrutiny. Recent calls for his incarceration, following his disregard for public health guidelines during the pandemic by reopening his factories, highlight a different set of priorities within the political system. It is crucial to remember that when faced with legal orders, individuals must comply to avoid legal consequences. However, the behavior of some high-profile figures like Musk can set a precedent for how less powerful entities might be treated in similar situations.

Subsidies and Political Influence

At the federal level, the relationship between Tesla and the political establishment is marked by a history of subsidies and broader strategic interests. Large oil companies, which have significant influence over Congress, have a vested interest in slowing down the adoption of EVs. This interest extends to lobbying efforts aimed at reversing fuel efficiency standards and promoting the sale of gas-guzzling vehicles. It is a strategic move to maintain the status quo and protect their financial interests. While Tesla has been the primary target of these efforts, it is evident that any EV manufacturer poses a threat to this industry's dominance.

State-Level Opposition and Auto Dealers

The opposition to Tesla is not confined to the federal level; it extends to the state level as well, where politics frequently plays a crucial role. Auto dealers, particularly those operating under dealer networks, play a significant role in this opposition. These networks are powerful players in state politics, often acting as a formidable lobbying force against reforms that could enhance fair competition. One of the key issues is the direct sale model employed by Tesla, which bypasses traditional dealer networks. Auto dealers argue that Tesla's direct sales model provides an unfair competitive advantage. However, a more nuanced analysis suggests that their true concern lies with the impact of EVs on their service departments' revenues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the political climate surrounding Tesla is shaped by a complex interplay of interests and influences. From federal subsidies favoring large oil companies to state-level opposition from auto dealers, the challenges faced by Tesla are multifaceted. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone seeking to engage with the political and economic realities of the EV industry. As Tesla continues to innovate and legitimize the EV market, the battle for its recognition and support will undoubtedly continue, highlighting the broader tensions within American political and industrial landscapes.