Arizona senator had also clashed with billionaire over the latter’s ‘traitor’ jibe after Kelly posted about his Ukraine visit

Summary

Democratic Senator and former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly announced he’s getting rid of his Tesla, citing owner Elon Musk’s role in federal budget cuts and social program reductions.

Kelly said the car reminds him of “how much damage Elon Musk and Donald Trump is doing to our country” and stated he doesn’t want to drive a car “built and designed by an asshole.”

The decision follows a clash where Musk called Kelly a “traitor” over Ukraine-related comments.

Kelly’s move joins others like singer Sheryl Crow in boycotting Tesla, as Musk’s political involvement has triggered sales declines, boycotts, and vandalism against the company.