In a recent interview on Fox News, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg drew a controversial comparison between Americans hesitant to embrace electric vehicles (EVs) and those who clung to landline phones in the early 2000s.
His remarks came in response to questions about the struggling EV market, with Tesla sales falling 8.5% in the first quarter of this year and Ford laying off two-thirds of its workforce at the F-150 electric lightning plant.
Buttigieg’s mocking attitude towards Americans who express valid concerns about the practicality and affordability of EVs is deeply troubling.
By likening their skepticism to an outdated preference for landline phones, he not only oversimplifies the issue but also belittles the genuine apprehensions of many citizens.
As Republican strategist Matt Whitlock aptly pointed out, “Democrats think EV’s are to gas-powered cars what cell phones were to landlines. In reality, EV’s are to gas powered cars what Fyre Fest was to music festivals.”
This astute observation highlights the false promises and artificial market forces that have been driving the push for widespread EV adoption.
WATCH: Pete Buttigieg mocks Americans who don't want to be forced into buying electric vehicles:
"I feel like it's the early 2000s and I'm talking to some people who think that we can just have landline phones forever." pic.twitter.com/Pz28FEmfVQ
— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) April 2, 2024
Commentator Noam Blum questioned Buttigieg’s argument, asking, “What’s your argument in favor of EVs other than ‘they’re newer’?”
This cuts to the heart of the matter – the administration has failed to provide compelling reasons for why EVs are a superior choice for most Americans.
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Moreover, as Fox News contributor Joe Concha noted, “Having a landline costs a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of what an electric vehicle costs on average.”
This stark financial reality illustrates the tone-deafness of Buttigieg’s comparison and the administration’s insistence on “shoving [EVs] down consumers throats,” as co-host John Roberts put it.
Buttigieg’s remarks demonstrate a disturbing lack of empathy and understanding for the concerns of everyday Americans.
Instead of engaging in constructive dialogue and addressing the legitimate issues surrounding EVs, he has chosen to mock and dismiss those who think differently than he does.
This attitude is unbecoming of a public servant and does little to foster trust or cooperation between the government and its citizens.
As the nation grapples with the challenges of transitioning to cleaner energy sources, it is crucial that our leaders approach the issue with sensitivity, pragmatism, and a willingness to listen to all perspectives.
Buttigieg’s recent comments serve as an example of how not to engage in this important conversation.
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He should be ashamed of his dismissive and condescending attitude towards Americans who are simply trying to make informed decisions about their transportation choices.
