I Want To Buy A Tesla Cybertruck But I’m Not Sure If the Political Backlash Has Calmed Down Enough Yet

For some people, buying a vehicle is just a matter of finding what drives well and fits the budget. But for others, especially in today’s hyper-polarized world, it can feel more like choosing a side in a cultural battle. And a few vehicles right now spark that feeling. Earlier this morning, I found myself in the "Tesla Cybertruck Owners" Facebook group when I came across a post by Robert Rob. He's seriously considering a Tesla Cybertruck but is concerned about whether the recent wave of backlash and public harassment surrounding the truck has truly died down. 

Here's what he had to say: “I want to buy one, but I’m not sure if the political backlash has calmed down enough yet. I’m fine with the looks. That doesn’t bother me. But if I’m driving my family around, I don’t want to get harassed or targeted because someone thinks I’m trying to make a statement. It’s just a truck to me. I just want something electric and durable.”

From Admiration to Anxiety

Let’s not forget that Tesla designed the Cybertruck to disrupt. It was never meant to blend in in a normal sense. From its stainless-steel exoskeleton to its brutalist lines, the truck dares people to react. And react they did. Some folks see it as a bold leap into the future, while others view it as a symbol of everything they love or hate about Tesla, Elon Musk, or even tech culture in general.

While the Cybertruck might be hailed by some as the most amazing vehicle ever built, there are plenty of owners like Robert who love the engineering and tech, but aren’t sure they want to make themselves a target by driving one.

Let’s look at some of the responses to Robert’s post. The conversation paints a clear picture of what new buyers might expect and how those experiences differ based on where you live and how you drive.

Jonathan Ritchie offered a sense of reassurance: “It’s possible, although improbable that you will encounter it. More questions and curiosity than anything. Far more love than hate always. Do it. Best vehicle you will ever buy.”

Jonathan’s perspective echoes what many early adopters have said: if you can get past the stares, you might find more admiration than animosity. And for those who do face challenges, the support from the Tesla community can be surprisingly strong.

Then came Rick Richter, who added some regional contrast: “I live in the People’s Republic of Ann Arbor and it is still constant.”

The irony in Rick's joke is that Musk's recent political shift has alienated many on the left, but even his fallout with the right leaves him politically isolated nowadays. In places where EVs were once embraced without hesitation, the Cybertruck now gets side-eyed not for what it is, but for what people think it represents. It shows how political baggage can really cling to a brand.

Bryan Phifer had a more optimistic take: “Way more positive than negative. The kids love them.”

This is something we’ve been seeing more of lately. Whether it’s a charging stop, a grocery store parking lot, or even a school pickup line, the Cybertruck draws kids in like a real-life Hot Wheels. It’s a reminder of how simple children really are. For them, politics is the last thing they’re worried about. It’s just a cool car.

Brian Griffin took a cheekier angle: “I still get flipped off but it makes things kind of exciting.”

There’s definitely an element of defiance among some owners. They lean into the attention and almost wear the reactions as a badge of honor. And let’s be honest, for a few people, that edge might even be part of the appeal.

Living With the Attention

Whether you’re an owner or just an admirer, there’s no denying that the Cybertruck gets noticed. It’s not just because of the design, but what it seems to say. People project onto the vehicle whatever feelings they have about Tesla or Elon.

But as one recent owner who had his Cybertruck vandalized while inside a store shared, sometimes that attention can turn negative, and even aggressive. It's moments like that which make buyers like Robert question if now really is the right time.

At the same time, there are countless stories of joy, surprise, and even nostalgia. Take Dennis Fields as an example, who's an 87-year-old grandfather who recently took his last drive ever in a Tesla Cybertruck. For him, the Cybertruck wasn’t a political symbol, but a symbol of progress.

Is the Backlash Actually Fading?

The truth is, the Cybertruck may always polarize to some degree. But over time, even the most radical designs start to normalize. Remember when the Prius looked strange? Or when people mocked the Model X’s doors? Today, both are accepted parts of the automotive landscape.

And the more people experience the truck in real-world settings—whether it’s towing trailers with ease or handling surprising roadside damage situations—the more it becomes just another truck. A highly capable, somewhat unconventional, but fully usable electric truck.

So I think what we’re seeing is the growing pain of a vehicle that dared to be different. Over time, things will cool down as the Cybertruck isn’t a prototype anymore. It’s here, it’s real, and real people are living with it.

What strikes me most is how quickly a vehicle can go from being a lightning rod to being just another vehicle in traffic. And I genuinely believe we’re heading in that direction with the Cybertruck. The key difference is whether you’re willing to be part of that early wave or if you’d rather wait until the waves have settled. Either way, there’s no wrong choice, as the Cybertruck certainly catches attention for the time being.

Key Takeaways for Buyers and Curious Onlookers:

• You’re not alone if you’re on the fence. Many prospective buyers are wrestling with the same concerns. It’s not shallow or irrational to wonder how your vehicle might be perceived in today’s cultural climate.
• Experiences vary wildly by region. What’s seen as cool or cutting-edge in one area might draw side-eyes or worse in another. Where you live matters.
• Over time, the novelty fades. And that’s a good thing. As more Cybertrucks hit the road, their presence becomes normalized, and the politics surrounding them soften.
• Community support is strong. Whether you’re asking questions in Facebook groups or looking for advice on repairs or upgrades, Cybertruck owners are some of the most engaged and supportive EV owners out there.
• Drive what fits your life. If you’re truly drawn to the Cybertruck for its performance, features, and utility, that should weigh more heavily than what a stranger yells from a red light.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever had someone react to your car in a way that surprised you, for better or worse? 

And what do you think of the Cybertruck? Is it something you would consider purchasing or not? 

I’d love to hear from you in our comments below.

Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.

Image Sources: Tesla’s gallery.