So the current month may prove to be particularly interesting in determining how tarnished the Tesla brand is due to the political activities of CEO Elon Musk and how much of its sales decline is due to a dated Model Y. Musk has been part of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has cut vital U.S. government programs. He has also endorsed far-right European politicians, triggering backlash against Tesla in the U.S. and Europe, including protests and vandalism.