In the ever-evolving world of tech influencers and public figures, major decisions often make waves. This week, one prominent tech YouTuber has stirred significant attention by announcing his intention to sell off every Tesla vehicle he owns by the end of 2025. The decision comes on the heels of a new controversy surrounding Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who is facing backlash for a gesture made at a high-profile event. Here’s everything you need to know about the situation, the backlash, and the responses from both Musk and his critics.

The Controversial Gesture: What Happened at the Inauguration?

On January 20, 2025, Elon Musk made headlines once again, but this time, the controversy arose from an appearance at President Trump’s inauguration. The Tesla CEO delivered a speech that was overshadowed by a moment caught on camera where he appeared to raise his arm in a way that many viewers interpreted as a “Nazi salute.”

While the gesture was brief and ambiguous, its implications sparked immediate reactions from the public, with some comparing it to the infamous salute used by Nazi regime leaders. This triggered a wave of comments across social media, with people questioning Musk’s intentions, his political stances, and the potential symbolism behind his actions.

Elon Musk’s Controversial Gesture quickly went viral, leading to an outcry from various groups who felt it was an inappropriate display. Critics were quick to scrutinize the gesture, asking whether Musk was attempting to make a political statement or simply engaging in an odd gesture that could easily be misinterpreted.

Elon Musk has sparked controversy after the presidential inauguration (**ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images**)

Elon Musk’s Response on X (formerly Twitter)

Naturally, the situation did not go unnoticed by Musk himself. Taking to his preferred platform, X (formerly Twitter), Musk addressed the controversy head-on. In a tweet, Musk dismissed the criticism, claiming, “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is soooo tired.”

However, his attempt to downplay the incident didn’t quell the criticism, as many continued to call out the implications of the gesture. Despite Musk’s comments, his words failed to convince some of his most loyal supporters, especially those who value his transparency and responsibility as a public figure. The online discourse surrounding this incident highlights the growing concerns people have about the growing intersection of technology, politics, and celebrity culture.

A Tech YouTuber Takes a Stand: Zack Nelson’s Bold Announcement

Among the most vocal critics of Musk’s actions is Zack Nelson, a well-known tech YouTuber who goes by the username @JerryRigEverything. With nearly nine million subscribers on YouTube, Nelson has built a reputation for providing detailed tech reviews, including on products such as smartphones and electric vehicles.

Nelson’s decision to weigh in on the controversy took the form of a public announcement: he plans to sell all of the four Tesla vehicles he currently owns by the end of 2025. The post, shared on X, read: “I currently own 4 different @Tesla vehicles. By the end of 2025, I will own zero @Tesla vehicles.”

Nelson’s statement quickly gained traction, sparking further debate about the future of Tesla as a brand and its connection to Musk’s personal actions. Nelson’s critics and fans alike reacted, with many expressing support for his decision to distance himself from a brand that has long been associated with Musk’s visionary leadership and controversial behavior.

Grimes’ Response: A Complicated Situation

The controversy surrounding Musk’s actions has also prompted responses from his ex-partner, the musician Grimes. Musk and Grimes, who share three children together, have often found themselves at the intersection of tech, celebrity, and public scrutiny. As the fallout from Musk’s gesture continued, some users on X called on Grimes to make a public statement.

Grimes, in her characteristic style, chose to address the matter with nuance. She tweeted:

“To be clear I could go talk s*** and be on a bunch of magazine covers and be a feminist hero and get clout – but it would serve no purpose. I choose my children’s wellbeing.”

Her tweet was a reflection of the complicated nature of her relationship with Musk. While she refrained from publicly denouncing Musk’s actions, Grimes emphasized her desire to protect her children’s privacy and wellbeing. The response highlighted the personal stakes involved for those closest to Musk, adding another layer to the ongoing discourse about the billionaire’s actions.

As the conversation continued, Grimes was asked to denounce the far-right ideologies associated with some of Musk’s followers. In her follow-up tweet, she clarified her stance on Nazism and the far-right, stating:

“I’m happy to denounce Nazism – and the far alt-right. Would that help clear things up?”

This back-and-forth exemplifies the challenges celebrities face when they are linked to polarizing figures like Musk, especially when they are tasked with responding to actions that may or may not reflect their own values.

Public Reactions: From Criticism to Support

As expected, the online community was divided on how to respond to the situation. Some supported Nelson’s decision to part ways with Tesla, viewing it as an ethical stand against Musk’s controversial actions. Others, however, criticized the move, arguing that Tesla as a company is much more than the individual running it, and that separating personal actions from corporate achievements is essential.

Tesla and Elon Musk’s Impact on the EV Market is undeniable, and some people believe that it’s important to focus on the broader implications of Tesla’s innovation in the electric vehicle market. Despite the controversy, Tesla remains a leader in the EV industry, with its vehicles known for performance, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology.

The Role of Social Media Influencers in Shaping Public Opinion

Zack Nelson’s announcement raises an important question about the influence of tech influencers and their role in shaping public opinion. As YouTubers and other digital content creators gain immense popularity, their words and actions hold significant weight. Many consumers trust their opinions when it comes to making purchasing decisions, and when a figure like Nelson decides to publicly distance himself from a brand like Tesla, it can send a strong message to his followers.

I currently own 4 different @Tesla vehicles.
by the end of 2025 i will own zero @Tesla vehicles. https://t.co/vlk5rgG46k
— JerryRigEverything (@ZacksJerryRig) January 20, 2025

This shift in sentiment underscores the growing power of social media platforms like X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube in influencing both consumer behavior and political discourse. As influencers wield more power, they are increasingly held accountable for their public stances, as seen in this case.

What’s Next for Tesla?

As we approach 2025, it will be interesting to see how Tesla and Elon Musk navigate this controversy and whether it will have lasting effects on the brand’s image. Elon Musk’s Leadership has been a defining factor in Tesla’s rise to prominence, but with growing scrutiny, the company may face new challenges in maintaining its appeal among both consumers and investors.

The case of Zack Nelson highlights how personal ethics and corporate decisions are increasingly interlinked in the modern world. As Tesla continues to innovate in the electric vehicle space, the company will need to address not only product development but also the public image of its leader and the broader issues that arise from it.

Conclusion: Is It Time to Rethink Our Relationship with Tesla?

With Elon Musk’s controversial actions continuing to spark debate, many people are rethinking their personal relationship with Tesla and the brand’s future. Whether it’s through tech influencers like Zack Nelson or the outspoken comments of Grimes, the narrative surrounding Tesla is shifting. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that the intersection of technology, ethics, and celebrity will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this innovative company.

Join the conversation: What do you think about Musk’s actions and their impact on Tesla? Should tech influencers take a stand like Zack Nelson, or should they separate their personal views from their purchasing decisions?