In a notable display of dissent, protestors congregated outside Tesla showrooms across the United States this past weekend, marking the continuation of unrest that has slowly been building against the electric car manufacturer and its controversial CEO, Elon Musk. Following the rise of the hashtag #TeslaTakeover on social media platforms, particularly Bluesky, daily demonstrations took place in various locations, bringing attention to grievances surrounding Musk’s leadership and political affiliations.
While the crowds didn’t seem overwhelmingly large, the sheer number of events, ranging from iconic cities like New York to suburban communities such as Golden Valley in Minnesota, reflects a growing network of protestors who are eager to voice their concerns. Events were documented from coast to coast, with future demonstrations already scheduled in states like Ohio, New Mexico, Florida, and locations as far away as Alberta, Canada.
The unrest is amplified by worries among Tesla investors regarding the financial repercussions of Musk’s political involvement as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency since President Trump’s term began. In a significant downturn, Tesla’s stock price has dropped approximately 21 percent since Trump’s inauguration. Many investors fear that Musk’s political leanings and public persona are not conducive to the company’s market performance. Senior staff within Tesla have reportedly suggested that the company could likely fare better were Musk to resign, underscoring the internal strife that has emerged alongside these protests.
While some demonstrations were notably larger, such as the one held outside the Tesla showroom in Manhattan, others seemed to draw attention for their unique slogans. Chants like “Don’t buy swasticars” and “Elon Musk can go to Mars; we don’t need your Nazi cars,” hint at the protestors’ anger towards what they perceive as Musk’s troubling associations with far-right groups. His actions, including what some interpret as a Nazi salute on Inauguration Day, further fuel their outrage.
One standout participant in this movement is actor and activist Alex Winter, who has vocally backed the protests, even appearing at a rally in Pasadena, California. Winter’s engagement helped amplify the message, and social media posts from his experience were a significant contributor to mobilizing supporters. The visibility of celebrities aligning with grassroots activism provides an intriguing intersection between fame and social justice, showcasing how public figures can wield their influence for social causes.
Meanwhile, musician Sheryl Crow brought an innovative approach to the protests through social media. She was seen sharing a video of a Tesla being removed on a flatbed tow truck, framing her departure from Tesla as a moral choice. Crow’s posts, which highlighted her decision to donate to NPR amidst concerns regarding public funding cuts, encapsulate a sentiment of taking a stand against corporate behaviors that clash with personal ideals.
Despite the hashtag #TeslaTakeover gaining traction, it is intriguing to note the discrepancy in protest coverage across various platforms. Bluesky seems to capture a more engaged audience for these protests, while traditional platforms like X, Instagram, and Threads have shown limited activity surrounding the events. This raises questions about the evolving dynamics of online discourse and its impact on social movements in today’s society.
As these protests continue to unfold, additional gatherings are already planned during the upcoming President’s Day holiday. While some demonstrations specifically target Tesla showrooms, others aim broader at Musk’s influence on everything from cryptocurrencies to his political stances related to President Trump.
As we witness this escalating response from consumers and investors alike, one thing is clear: the conversation surrounding Tesla and Elon Musk is far from over. The protests symbolize a deeper layer of dissatisfaction that many hold towards leadership accountability in a rapidly changing political landscape. For Tesla, the implications of these movements could be profound, as dissenting voices coalesce around the desire for responsible corporate leadership that aligns more closely with consumer values. The coming weeks may prove pivotal in determining whether this wave of protest leads to significant changes or remains a fleeting moment in the ongoing saga of one of the world’s most scrutinized companies.