Washington, DC – Demonstrators across the United States, Canada, and Europe are participating in “Tesla Takedown” protests to oppose CEO Elon Musk’s policies of reducing federal government staffing and budgets. These demonstrations, part of a global day of action, call for individuals to sell their Tesla vehicles and stock as a means of denouncing Musk’s efforts.
The “Tesla Takedown” movement, consisting of over 200 planned demonstrations in the US alone, aims to shed light on Musk’s decisions since aligning with the Trump administration. Under his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk has advocated for spending cuts, deregulation, and downsizing the workforce, all while allegedly providing misleading information to the public about federal spending.
In Washington, DC, a protest outside a Tesla showroom drew over 100 people for a “Tesla Takedown Dance Party.” Participants carried anti-Musk signs, danced to disco music, and received honks of support from passing vehicles. Organizers like Austin Naughton believe that Musk’s actions are utilizing his power and wealth for negative purposes.
Despite Musk’s wealth being closely tied to Tesla, the company has faced increased acts of vandalism and violence as a result of his controversial decisions. In Las Vegas, a man was arrested for setting fire to multiple Tesla vehicles at a repair facility. While protests like the one in Georgetown remained nonviolent, concerns have been raised about escalating attacks on Tesla facilities across the country.
Organizers like Sara Steffens and Melissa Knutson have been planning protests against Musk’s actions for months. Their goal is to stand up against what they view as unwarranted cuts to vital government agencies, impacting not just federal workers but also individuals reliant on services provided by these institutions.
The escalating tensions are not limited to the US, as individuals around the world have criticized Musk and the Trump administration’s decisions affecting foreign aid and agency funding. Protesters like Laura Plaia and Todd Post have shared stories of personal impact, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of these policy changes on both domestic and international levels.
As anti-Tesla sentiments grow, law enforcement agencies like the FBI have taken notice. The FBI has formed a task force to address the escalating incidents of violence against Tesla dealerships and related entities. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities targeting Tesla properties, emphasizing the need to differentiate between random acts of violence and legitimate protest efforts.
In response to the backlash, Musk has addressed concerns about Tesla’s stock price and the impact of vandalism on the company. While Musk maintains that his government role has been detrimental to his businesses, the financial ramifications of the ongoing protests and attacks on Tesla properties continue to be a point of contention for both supporters and critics alike.