Recent weeks have witnessed a surge of demonstrations against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, in multiple U.S. cities. Protesters, driven by various grievances, including Musk's association with controversial political stances and financial policies, have organized rallies outside Tesla showrooms and other locations. These protests, labeled as "Tesla Takedown," have gained momentum through social media platforms and dedicated websites, urging Tesla owners to sell their vehicles and stocks. The movement has led to instances of vandalism and hostility toward Tesla vehicles, raising concerns about the broader impact on the company’s reputation and stock performance.
The "Tesla Takedown" protests began as a response to perceived missteps by Musk, particularly his involvement with DOGE and alleged support for policies that affect federal employment. One of the key organizers behind this movement is Alex Winter, an actor and filmmaker known for his role in "Bill & Ted." Winter has been vocal about the demonstrations, which have reportedly taken place at over 100 Tesla locations across the country. Protesters express dissatisfaction with Musk's influence on both corporate and governmental levels, calling for accountability and a boycott of Tesla products.
In Seattle, demonstrators gathered at entrances to the University Village shopping mall on February 22, holding signs that called for boycotting Tesla and defunding Musk. Similar scenes unfolded in Fort Lauderdale, where over 200 people lined up outside a Tesla dealership on Federal Highway. In San Francisco, protesters chanted slogans advocating for workers' rights and inclusivity outside Tesla’s Van Ness showroom. Notably, some protests featured creative elements like cardboard cutouts of Musk and Uncle Sam burning in a Cybertruck, symbolizing the public's frustration with perceived corporate overreach.
New York City also saw significant activity, with leaflets urging Tesla owners to sell their cars appearing on windshields. Demonstrators in the Meatpacking District and Mount Kisko joined forces, drawing attention to issues they believe Musk has exacerbated. Meanwhile, London witnessed an unconventional form of protest when an anti-Tesla ad appeared at a bus stop, drawing parallels between Musk's actions and historical events. The ad went viral on social media, sparking discussions about the implications of Musk's public behavior.
While these protests aim to hold powerful individuals accountable, they have also resulted in unintended consequences. Some Tesla owners have reported receiving insults or facing vandalism, with one individual describing feeling violated after finding derogatory messages written on their car. Despite Musk dismissing the protests as insignificant, the incidents highlight growing tensions between the public and influential figures in technology and business sectors. As the controversy continues, it remains to be seen how these demonstrations will affect Tesla's market position and shareholder confidence.