The Tesla Takedown Movement

The protests aimed to challenge Musk’s influence as the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an advisory panel aligned with the Trump administration. Activists are leveraging Musk’s ownership of Tesla and his substantial wealth—estimated at $340 billion, primarily from Tesla stock—to alert the public about concerns associated with his governance.

Organizers hoped to encircle all of Tesla’s 277 dealerships and service centers across the United States, following prior smaller-scale demonstrations. By midday, protests had appeared at locations in states such as New Jersey, Massachusetts, Texas, and New York, with participants showcasing signs like “Honk if you hate Elon” and “Fight the billionaire oligarchy.”

Demonstrations Across the Globe

In addition to U.S. protests, the Tesla Takedown movement expanded internationally, aiming to mobilize gatherings at over 230 Tesla locations worldwide. Though the turnout was less pronounced in Europe, similar sentiments against Musk surfaced. Demonstrators in London waved signs condemning Musk, garnering horn honks of support from passing vehicles.

One notable sign compared Musk to Adolf Hitler, referencing an incident where he appeared to imitate a Nazi salute, a gesture he later described as innocent. A person dressed as a Tyrannosaurus rex carried a sign with the message, “Don’t buy a Swasticar,” highlighting the extreme divisiveness surrounding Musk’s public image.

Political Support and Peace Calls

Noteworthy figures, including actor John Cusack and U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas, voiced support for the protests. Crockett emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful protest during a recent organizing call, while Rep. Pramila Jayapal participated at a Seattle protest, advocating for the movement’s objectives.

Participants voiced concerns such as, “We’re living in a fascist state,” expressing their belief in the need to combat what they consider detrimental governance.

Incidents of Vandalism

While most protests remained peaceful, a few escalated to acts of vandalism. Events such as a fire in Germany that destroyed seven Tesla cars are under investigation, with local law enforcement probing potential links to the protests. In Massachusetts, a vehicle incident during a protest involved the slight injury of two individuals; the driver was apprehended at the scene.

Corporate Outlook Amid Backlash

Despite the unrest and a noticeable dip in vehicle sales, Musk remains optimistic about Tesla’s future. During a corporate meeting, he assured employees that the Model Y would continue its sales dominance, predicting Tesla would sell over 10 million cars globally by the following year.

Musk stated, “There are times when there are rocky moments… but the future is incredibly bright and exciting,” indicating confidence in the company’s recovery despite current challenges.

The protests underscore a growing dissatisfaction among some Tesla customers who are reconsidering their ownership, reflecting a significant backlash against Musk’s recent affiliations and management style.