Because the state senator representing Brooklyn’s twenty first District and chair of the Senate Power & Telecommunications Committee, I’ve an obligation to guard the pursuits of my constituents, particularly the colourful Haitian group –– the most important in america –– that calls our district house. Current actions by Elon Musk and President Donald Trump have posed direct threats to those communities, and it’s time we handle them head-on.
Elon Musk: A Detriment to Our Values and Economic system
Elon Musk, as soon as hailed as a tech visionary, has revealed himself as a determine whose actions and alliances are deeply troubling. Important controversies, together with union-busting techniques, racial discrimination lawsuits, and a blatant disregard for employee rights have marred his management of Tesla. These points will not be simply moral considerations; they’ve tangible financial repercussions.
That’s the reason I joined my colleagues within the State Senate to name on Comptroller Tom DiNapoli to divest our state pension fund from Tesla and different Elon Musk-linked corporations. Our letter to Comptroller DiNapoli emphasised that “Tesla’s long-term stability, company governance, and publicity to political, authorized, and reputational danger” make it an unworthy funding.
Tesla’s inventory has been on a downward spiral, reflecting the corporate’s instability. As of April 1, 2025, Tesla shares closed at $263.80, marking a considerable decline from earlier highs. Analysts predict additional drops, with Wells Fargo setting a worth goal of $130 per share –– a possible 50% lower from present ranges. This decline is attributed to disappointing car deliveries, declining earnings, and skepticism about future fashions.
Investing public pension funds in such a unstable firm is not only fiscally irresponsible; it’s a disservice to the hardworking New Yorkers who depend on these pensions for retirement.
Donald Trump’s Assault on Immigrant Communities
President Donald Trump’s insurance policies have persistently focused immigrant communities, and his latest actions proceed this dangerous development. The Trump administration’s determination to terminate Non permanent Protected Standing (TPS) for Haitian nationals is a direct assault on households who’ve constructed their lives right here. This transfer threatens to uproot 1000’s, tearing dad and mom from kids and staff from their jobs.
The Haitian group in Brooklyn contributes immensely to our cultural cloth and economic system. Rescinding TPS not solely endangers their livelihoods but additionally destabilizes the native companies and companies that depend on their participation. It’s an inhumane coverage that disregards the elemental values of our metropolis and state.
The Harmful Alliance Between Musk and Trump
Extra alarming is the burgeoning alliance between Elon Musk and Donald Trump. Musk’s platform, X (previously Twitter), has turn out to be a megaphone for far-right ideologies and disinformation. His open assist for Trump’s insurance policies, together with anti-immigrant stances, aligns him with an agenda that seeks to marginalize and oppress communities of coloration and immigrants.
This partnership is not only political theater; it has real-world penalties. Musk’s amplification of Trump’s rhetoric fuels division and emboldens insurance policies that hurt our constituents. It’s an alliance that prioritizes private acquire over the well-being of on a regular basis People.
Divestment: A Ethical and Monetary Crucial
Given these developments, it’s crucial that New York State and Metropolis divest from Tesla and any Musk-affiliated enterprises. Persevering with to put money into these entities is tantamount to endorsing their dangerous actions and unstable monetary practices. Our public funds ought to mirror our values –– supporting corporations that respect employee rights, uphold moral requirements, and contribute positively to our communities.
As the primary candidate for New York Metropolis Comptroller to name for such divestment, I stand agency within the perception that our investments should align with our dedication to justice and fairness. We can’t, in good conscience, enable public {dollars} to assist people and firms that actively work towards the pursuits of our residents.
Standing in Solidarity with Our Communities
The Haitian group, together with all immigrant communities in New York, deserves our unwavering assist. We should oppose insurance policies and figures that threaten their stability and well-being. By divesting from Tesla and condemning the actions of Elon Musk and Donald Trump, we ship a transparent message: New York stands with its various communities, and we is not going to fund their oppression.
It’s time for our state and metropolis to take a stand. Let’s align our investments with our values and defend the futures of all New Yorkers.
