Protests against Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have erupted at over 50 Tesla showrooms across the United States.
The movement, known as “Tesla Takedown,” is calling for a boycott of Tesla products, a sell-off of stocks, and a vote of no confidence against Musk from shareholders.
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The Rise of Tesla Takedown Protests
The “Tesla Takedown” movement, which gained traction through social media and grassroots organizing, began its first protest on February 15. Led by actor and filmmaker Alex Winter, the protests focus on Musk’s controversial role in slashing government agencies and his involvement in government reshuffling under President Donald Trump.
The movement aims to encourage Tesla owners to sell their vehicles and join protests, amplifying dissatisfaction with Musk’s business and political decisions.
Global Impact: International Protests Gain Momentum
The protests are not limited to the U.S. They’ve also spread internationally, with demonstrations taking place in Barcelona, Spain, and upcoming protests in London, Lisbon, and Reykjavik.
According to Winter, the international scope of these protests highlights growing global discontent with Musk's actions and influence.
Protests in Major U.S. Cities: Mass Gatherings and Chants of Dissent
Protests have varied in size, with notable demonstrations in cities such as Boston, Portland, and Tucson, Arizona, where around 1,000 protesters gathered. In Washington, D.C., the protest grew from two individuals to 20 within an hour.
Chants like “Elon Musk has got to go” and supportive honking from drivers demonstrated the increasing public frustration with Musk’s role in both Tesla and broader government actions.
Personal Stories: Why Protesters Are Taking to the Streets
Participants shared personal stories of frustration, feeling powerless against what they view as the ongoing destruction caused by Musk’s policies and business decisions. Many cited concerns over Musk's other ventures, including Starlink, and his lack of proper vetting compared to other political appointees.
Donna Powell, a retiree in Washington, D.C., explained that this protest was her 20th against Musk and Trump’s actions, showing the ongoing commitment of the protest community to hold the tech mogul accountable.
Tesla’s Declining Stock and Impact on Musk’s Wealth
Tesla's sales and stock have seen a decline, which directly impacts Musk’s net worth. Musk, who owns nearly 13% of Tesla, has seen a $52 billion drop in net worth as Tesla shares plummeted 27.6% in February.
Protests hope to hit Musk where it hurts—his financial standing—by encouraging a sell-off of Tesla shares and pressuring investors.
Will the Protests Affect Tesla’s Bottom Line?
While protests have been significant, it’s unclear whether the “Tesla Takedown” movement will substantially impact the company’s sales. Despite a decrease in sales in 2024, Tesla continues to lead the electric vehicle market, and some consumers may be separating Tesla as a brand from Musk’s controversial involvement in government and business affairs.
Jessica Caldwell of Edmunds noted that the protests haven't led to a noticeable rise in Tesla owners appraising their cars, though Tesla faces increased competition from companies like General Motors, Ford, and Volkswagen, which could be contributing to its sales decline.
Protests Reflect Growing Discontent with Musk's Influence
The Tesla Takedown movement reflects deepening dissatisfaction with Elon Musk’s influence over both Tesla and his broader political and business actions.
Whether these protests will translate into long-term changes in Tesla’s sales and stock value remains uncertain, but the growing global movement highlights the growing resistance to Musk’s involvement in government and corporate matters.
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Written By HowNHowTo.com