Protests Erupt Nationwide Against Elon Musk Amid ‘Tesla Takedown’ Movement

NEW YORK– On a bustling Saturday in New York City, protesters voiced their discontent towards Elon Musk and his leadership role in President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). These demonstrations are part of a broader movement, known as the ‘Tesla Takedown’, aimed at showcasing public opposition to Musk’s influence and actions.

The ‘Tesla Takedown’ rallies were just a part of over 200 coordinated protests occurring across the United States. Locations ranged from New York to Maryland, Texas, and California, with additional events planned in Canada and Europe. Central to this global day of action were Tesla locations, which have recently experienced instances of vandalism as sentiments against Musk’s leadership intensify. Musk, as CEO of the car and clean energy titan, faces mounting criticism.

Jay, a Brooklyn resident, shared his perspective on the purpose of the protest. He expressed skepticism about achieving immediate results but underscored the importance of revealing Musk’s declining popularity, stating that the protest aimed to reflect the broader discontent with the billionaire.

He stated, “If you attack the cars, you’re attacking Musk himself, as they represent a significant source of his power and wealth.” His views resonated with the crowd, as hundreds joined in holding signs denouncing Musk and chanting slogans against him. The atmosphere escalated when a Tesla drove past, prompting protesters to boo and approach the vehicle in unison.

Jezra, another New York resident, articulated her frustration during the event, declaring, “Elon Musk is destroying our economy.” She asserted that the ongoing protests are affecting Tesla’s stock value, illustrating the broader economic implications associated with Musk’s actions.

Kaye echoed these sentiments, expressing concerns about the future of Tesla, saying, “Nobody wants to buy a Tesla. If he can experience a financial setback, maybe he will comprehend the struggles that many of us endure daily due to his decisions.” As of March, reports indicate that Tesla’s stock had fallen by more than 41 percent year-to-date, a decline attributed to ongoing protests and vandalism linking back to Musk’s controversial role in DOGE.

Some attendees had personal grievances, including Nate Shanken from Brooklyn. He highlighted the impact of Musk’s decisions on his livelihood, holding up a sign that read, “Elon took my job.” Shanken explained he had recently lost his job because his organization, dependent on federal funding, faced significant contract cancellations.

Under Trump’s administration, DOGE was tasked with optimizing government performance, which included slashing spending and improving efficiency. Although DOGE claims to have saved taxpayers $130 billion, individuals like Shanken have felt the direct consequences of such measures.

Protesters expressed a wide range of opinions about Musk’s influence in the government. Laura, another attendee, remarked, “He is a malignant presence in the government.” She carried a sign proclaiming, “Dogs against DOGE” while cradling her dog. Laura criticized the lack of electoral legitimacy that characterizes Musk’s power within the administration, making a case for a democratic system that reflects the people’s will.

Critics, including Senator Bernie Sanders, have raised alarms about creating an oligarchy through the appointment of billionaires like Musk to advisory roles in government operations.

In response to the mounting protests, Musk took to social media, questioning the funding and organization behind what he characterized as paid demonstrations. His comments included a video clip of podcast host Joe Rogan discussing the protests that have unfolded in recent days.

Maggie, a resident of Park Slope, voiced her belief that many consumers regretted their Tesla purchases. She argued that if buyers sold their Teslas, it would diminish financial support for Musk’s political ambitions, stating, “This protest symbolizes a force against the current administration’s trajectory.”

Protesters were not alone in their dissatisfaction; several public figures, including Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona and celebrity Sheryl Crow, have also expressed their frustrations by divesting from Tesla in symbolic protest.

The events of Saturday were marked by the peaceful nature of the rallies. Nonetheless, Attorney General Pam Bondi previously warned that any acts of violence from protesters would incur legal consequences. The demonstrations reflect a broader societal unrest regarding corporate influence in governance and the actions of public figures.

Musk’s tenure in a governmental position raises crucial questions about the intersections of business power and political legitimacy. As public sentiment continues to shift, the ‘Tesla Takedown’ movement reveals the growing desire for accountability from influential figures in both the corporate and political arenas.

Efforts to hold billionaires accountable may only be emerging. The nationwide protests signify a turning point in public engagement with power dynamics, corporate influence, and the governance structures that affect everyday lives.

Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton and Alec Schemmel contributed to this report.