Investors are questioning the tech billionaire's involvement in Trump's administration, while shares in his Tesla electric-car company plummet.It was perhaps the clearest sign yet that Tesla CEO Elon Musk's political maneuvering has backfired.

This suggests that a reaction from consumers who dislike Mr Musk’s antics are only one reason for falling sales. An updated Model Y, Tesla’s best-selling vehicle, has just gone on sale. In preparation Tesla ran down inventory of the old model, crimping supply. Customers doubtless held off purchases until the new car was available.