Tesla’s Latest Controversy: A Manager Fired for Speaking Out Against Elon Musk’s Social Media Post
A Stunning Incident of Censorship and Retaliation
In a move that has once again highlighted the rigid hierarchy and intolerance for dissent within Elon Musk’s business empire, Tesla has fired a manager who dared to criticize a controversial social media post by the CEO. Jared Ottmann, a manager and engineer who worked closely with Tesla’s battery suppliers, revealed on LinkedIn that he was let go after expressing his objections to a post by Musk on the platform X. The post in question made light of Nazi leaders, including Heinrich Himmler and Hermann Göring, using wordplay that many found deeply offensive. Musk’s post, which included phrases like “Stop Göring your enemies” and “Bet you did Nazi that coming,” was punctuated with a laughing-while-crying emoji, further amplifying the insensitive tone. Ottmann, who had previously raised concerns about Musk’s behavior internally, was ultimately dismissed after speaking out publicly about the issue.
A History of Silencing Dissent
This incident is not an isolated one but rather part of a larger pattern of suppressing criticism within Musk’s companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, and X. In 2022, SpaceX fired nine employees who had called on the company to distance itself from Musk’s divisive social media comments, including one where he mocked sexual harassment accusations against himself. Some of those employees later filed charges with the National Labor Relations Board, accusing the company of unfair labor practices. Similarly, at X, several employees who criticized Musk after his $44 billion takeover of the platform in 2022 were fired, despite Musk’s frequent claims of being a champion of free speech.
Musk’s Political Leanings and the Growing Divide
Ottmann’s firing and the broader culture of retaliation within Musk’s companies also underscore the growing polarization caused by Musk’s right-wing political affiliations. Musk has openly supported far-right groups, including a German party whose members have been fined for using Nazi slogans. Additionally, his role in the Trump administration as the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency has further cemented his status as a polarizing figure. Within Tesla, this political stance has led to internal tension, with employees expressing frustration over Musk’s activities during a meeting in Palo Alto, California. The dismissal of Ottmann and others who have spoken out against Musk’s actions serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of challenging the CEO’s views.
The Clash Between Free Speech and Corporate Retaliation
Ironically, Musk has often positioned himself as a defender of free speech, even offering to fund lawsuits against employers who fire workers for their social media posts. For instance, in 2024, he funded a lawsuit for a former Block employee who was fired for inflammatory posts she made on a pseudonymous X account. Yet, his own companies have consistently demonstrated a zero-tolerance policy for criticism directed at him. This hypocrisy has not gone unnoticed, and it raises serious questions about the sincerity of Musk’s commitment to free expression.
The Ripple Effects on Tesla and Its Stakeholders
The fallout from Ottmann’s firing and the broader culture of fear within Musk’s organizations have also raised concerns among investors. Tesla’s stock has declined by approximately 40% since December 2022, with many fearing that Musk’s political activities and divisive behavior are alienating customers and distracting him from addressing the company’s sliding car sales. The firing of employees who speak out against Musk’s actions not only undermines morale but also creates a toxic work environment that could have long-term consequences for the company’s success.
A Broader Pattern of Intimidation and Control
The incident involving Ottmann is just one example of a broader pattern of intimidation and control within Musk’s companies. Earlier this year, a SpaceX employee was fired after criticizing Musk for wearing company apparel during campaign appearances for former President Donald Trump. Although the employee’s access to internal systems was later reinstated, they chose to resign shortly after. These events highlight the delicate balance employees must strike when working for Musk—criticizing the CEO, even when justified, can come at a steep personal and professional cost.
In summary, Jared Ottmann’s dismissal by Tesla is the latest chapter in a troubling narrative of censorship and retaliation within Elon Musk’s business empire. As Musk continues to navigate the complexities of his political ambitions and public persona, the consequences for those who dare to challenge him are becoming increasingly clear. Whether this approach will ultimately harm Musk’s companies or further entrench his authority remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the suppression of dissent is having a profound impact on the culture and reputation of Tesla, SpaceX, and X.