Bette Midler made her entrance at the 25th Costume Designers Guild Awards held at The Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, California, on February 27, 2023. (Photo by JEAN-BAPTISTE LACROIX/AFP via Getty Images)
Midler expressed her delight after parting ways with her Tesla.
“What a joyful day!” the renowned performer shared on Instagram and Bluesky. “I sold my (gulp) Tesla!” Despite her reputation as an environmental advocate, Midler celebrated her decision to sell the electric vehicle, describing Tesla as “a symbol of racism, greed, and ignorance” due to its connection with CEO Elon Musk.
On March 11, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk were seen speaking to the media while seated in a Tesla vehicle on the South Portico of the White House in Washington, DC. (Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Musk’s significant financial involvement in U.S. politics and his far-right messaging globally have made Tesla products a focal point for protests since January 20. Trump’s close associate has invested nearly $3 billion to support the president and his allies’ return to power, while also participating in initiatives to reduce federal programs and eliminate government jobs.
At 79, Midler has consistently been a vocal supporter of liberal politics and frequently criticizes Trump and Musk on social media. She ceased posting on X, which Musk owns, immediately following Trump’s reelection victory in November.
“Life is so much better!!!” she declared on her remaining social media platforms while announcing her decision to sever ties with Tesla.
Midler is not the only artist to publicly distance herself from a vehicle produced by Musk. In February, Grammy Award-winning artist Sheryl Crow shared a video of her Tesla being towed away, stating that she would donate the proceeds from the sale to NPR. “There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to align with,” Crow wrote on Instagram. “So long Tesla.”Certain Tesla owners who have retained their vehicles have indicated that they have modified them to conceal the make and model due to concerns about vandalism or being associated with Musk. Tesla products and dealerships globally have faced acts of vandalism, including graffiti, arson, and other forms of defacement by individuals who disagree with Musk’s contentious opinions.
Additionally, Tesla’s stock has suffered since Musk began engaging in political matters.
In contrast, Trump has utilized his position to promote the purchase of Teslas and has cautioned that anyone who damages these vehicles will face serious consequences.
