Protesters rally against Elon Musk at Tesla showrooms over the continued U.S. government purge
Protests against billionaire Elon Musk’s involvement in the U.S. government under President Trump have erupted outside Tesla dealerships across the U.S. and in various European cities. Demonstrators are expressing their opposition to Musk’s leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he has made significant budget cuts and closed government agencies. As the world’s richest man, most of Musk’s wealth is tied to his ownership of Tesla, the electric vehicle company he still manages while working with President Trump.
Previous protests have been sporadic, but on Saturday, a coordinated effort was made to surround all 277 Tesla showrooms and service centers in the U.S. to impact the company’s sales. Crowds ranging from a few dozen to hundreds gathered at Tesla locations in states like New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, brandishing signs with messages like “Honk if you hate Elon” and “Fight the billionaire broligarchy.”
The movement, known as Tesla Takedown, also saw protests at over 230 Tesla locations globally, with Europe showing similar anti-Musk sentiment. In London, protesters held signs comparing Musk to Adolf Hitler and calling for resistance against his actions. Celebrities like John Cusack and political figures, including Rep. Jasmine Crockett, have joined the cause.
While some protestors have resorted to vandalism, including setting fire to Tesla vehicles, leaders like Crockett emphasize the importance of peaceful demonstrations. However, incidents like the recent fire that destroyed seven Tesla cars in Germany raise concerns about the escalation of tensions.
Reports of vandalism at Tesla dealerships and incidents targeting Tesla vehicles have raised security concerns. Some Tesla owners are considering selling their cars or distancing themselves from Musk’s actions. Despite the backlash, Musk remains optimistic about Tesla’s future, reassuring employees about the company’s success.
Investors initially viewed Musk’s collaboration with President Trump positively, but recent events have caused Tesla’s stock to plummet. Analysts suggest that Musk must navigate this crisis to restore confidence in the company’s future.
