In a bold move, singer Sheryl Crow has decided to sell her Tesla and donate the proceeds to National Public Radio (NPR), citing her disapproval of Elon Musk’s recent actions. The Grammy-winning artist shared her decision on Instagram, posting a video of her Tesla being towed away as she waved goodbye. In her caption, Crow reflected on her parents’ advice about the company one keeps, emphasizing the importance of aligning with values that resonate with her principles. “There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to stand with,” she wrote. “So long, Tesla.”
Crow’s donation to NPR comes amid ongoing tensions between the media organization and Elon Musk, who has publicly criticized the outlet for its perceived bias. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also taken on a role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He has called for NPR to lose its federal funding, accusing the network of favoring certain political narratives while silencing conservative and anti-establishment voices. Crow’s gesture is a clear statement in support of independent journalism and the pursuit of truth.
The controversy surrounding NPR stems in part from its handling of the Hunter Biden laptop story during the 2020 election. At the time, NPR dismissed the story as unsubstantiated, with then-managing editor Terence Samuels calling it a distraction. However, subsequent revelations confirmed the authenticity of the laptop’s contents, yet NPR has not issued a retraction or apology for its initial dismissal. This incident has fueled criticism from Musk and others who argue that the network’s credibility is compromised.
Crow is not alone in her decision to distance herself from Tesla due to Musk’s political affiliations. Actor Jason Bateman also revealed last year that he sold his Tesla, comparing the experience to driving around with a Trump campaign sticker. For many, Musk’s vocal support for former President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies has made ownership of a Tesla feel like an endorsement of his political stance. Crow’s actions highlight a growing trend of public figures using their platforms to take a stand on issues they feel strongly about.
By donating the proceeds from her Tesla sale to NPR, Crow is sending a powerful message about the importance of supporting independent media in an era of increasing polarization. Her decision underscores the idea that personal choices, even those as seemingly mundane as the car one drives, can carry significant symbolic weight. As debates over media bias and corporate influence continue to dominate the cultural landscape, Crow’s gesture serves as a reminder that individuals have the power to make their voices heard—and to stand up for what they believe in.