Protests persist in fifth week at Tesla showrooms over Elon Musk's association with DOGE cryptocurrency
It's Elon Musk's role as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency that's stirring the pot, with the "Tesla Takedown" protests hitting roughly 90 Tesla showrooms across the USA this weekend. This five-week-old movement encourages protesters to sell their Teslas and dump their stocks, aiming to take a swing at Musk, who's got a chunky stake in the electric vehicle company.
The"Tesla Takedown" first made waves when Hollywood actor and filmmaker Alex Winter, along with Joan Donovan, an assistant professor of journalism and emerging studies at Boston University, set it in motion. Now, with local organizers in about 28 states and Washington, D.C., these protests are drawing in a growing crowd of demonstrators, carrying signs like "Honk if you hate Elon" and "Sell your swastica."
The movement's objective is to show widespread opposition to Musk's political actions and influence. Beyond the live demonstrations, the protests are aimed at reducing Musk's financial and political power. The push also seeks to highlight the ethical responsibilities of business leaders and their political involvement.
As for the effects on Elon Musk and Tesla, Tesla's stock has suffered a significant decline, losing nearly 50% of its value since December. This economic downturn is partly attributed to public backlash against Musk's political actions. Sales have also dropped, particularly in Europe, where early 2025 sales plunged by about 49% compared to the previous year.
Public discontent is evident in the form of protests taking place across the USA and internationally, targeting Tesla showrooms and facilities. Some consumers are even choosing to sell their Teslas or divest from Tesla stock as a form of protest, impacting the company's brand image and consumer loyalty.
The movement has sparked discussions about corporate influence in politics and the ethical responsibilities of CEOs. It reflects a broader societal trend where consumers are increasingly considering the political stances of companies in their purchasing decisions. However, not everyone is on the protesters' side, as some political figures, including those from the Trump administration, have defended Musk and encouraged investment in Tesla.
- Elon Musk, in his role as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency, might be hoping for a change in the public sentiment towards his business ventures, as evidenced by the "Tesla Takedown" protests that have been showcased in 90 Tesla showrooms across the USA.
- Tesla, the electric vehicle company that Musk has a significant stake in, has faced a one-two punch from the protests, first impacting its brand image and consumer loyalty through sales of Tesla vehicles and divestment from Tesla stock, and second, causing a dramatic decrease in its stock value, losing nearly 50% since December.
- In response to the protests and the ethical concerns they have raised, it's possible that Musk may face reprimanding for his political actions and influence on his business, as the "Tesla Takedown" movement seeks to highlight the ethical responsibilities that business leaders should bear when their political involvement comes into question.
