A new Gallup poll has revealed that Elon Musk, once widely regarded as one of the most influential innovators of the 21st century, is now among the most unfavourable public figures worldwide. According to the survey of 1,000 randomly selected American adults, 61 percent of respondents expressed an unfavourable opinion of Musk. This finding highlights a sharp decline in his public image, driven by his association with US President Donald Trump and his leadership role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The results not only mark a turning point in Musk’s reputation but also signal wider consequences for his businesses, particularly Tesla, and the global electric vehicle (EV) industry.
America’s most disliked person? New data points straight to Elon Musk
The Gallup survey positioned Musk above several controversial global leaders on the list of most disliked figures. Notably, he surpassed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who received a 52 percent unfavourable rating amid international criticism of his handling of the conflict in Gaza. The poll underscores Musk’s significant fall in public standing, placing him in the spotlight as one of the most divisive individuals on the global stage.These findings are consistent with earlier research conducted by the Associated Press in April, which showed only 33 percent of US adults held a favourable view of Musk. His favorability has continued to deteriorate throughout 2025, particularly after the breakdown of his relationship with Trump in mid-year.
Elon Musk is the most ‘disliked’ person in America: New study finds
Elon Musk’s role in DOGE
Musk’s declining reputation is closely tied to his involvement in DOGE, a government program created to improve bureaucratic efficiency. At the outset, the project appeared to be a limited role intended to align Musk with Trump’s administration without deep political involvement. However, Musk’s restructuring proposals, including plans to require federal employees to document five weekly workplace achievements, attracted both attention and controversy.In late October, Musk acknowledged the risks associated with his government role, saying, “I’ll probably need a lot of security, but it’s got to be done,” in reference to the push for systemic reforms. The initiative was ultimately terminated by the Trump administration, further contributing to Musk’s political and public challenges.
Elon Musk’s Fallout with President Donald Trump
Musk’s public image took a severe hit following his very public fallout with Trump in June. What began as a cooperative relationship quickly escalated into a high-profile dispute marked by threats and sharp words exchanged through media appearances and public statements.Trump, when asked about Musk during the summer, stated, “I’m not thinking about Elon. I just wish him well,” signalling a distancing from his once-close associate.The conflict proved damaging for Musk’s standing among Republican voters. Subsequent polling by the Associated Press showed a noticeable decline in his support among conservative groups, which had previously been one of his most consistent bases of political approval.
Business consequences for Tesla and the EV Market
The effects of Musk’s declining reputation have not been limited to politics. Tesla, his flagship electric vehicle company, has faced measurable business consequences. According to market data, sales have declined significantly in Europe and China, two of Tesla’s largest international markets. Analysts suggest that Musk’s polarising persona is discouraging potential buyers, not only of Tesla vehicles but also of electric cars from other manufacturers.This “Musk effect” could be slowing the adoption of electric vehicles globally, as consumer attitudes toward Musk appear to be influencing broader perceptions of the EV industry. The trend has raised concerns about the long-term implications for sustainable transportation and global climate initiatives that rely heavily on electric vehicle adoption.
Wider impact on US political figures
The Gallup poll also recorded declines in favorability for several members of the Trump administration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with Trump himself, saw unfavourable ratings rise as the nation approaches the midterm elections. The trend suggests that Musk’s public fallout and controversies may be part of a broader wave of dissatisfaction with political figures tied to the administration.