Protests against Tesla have escalated, with demonstrators taking to the streets in cities worldwide. CEO Elon Musk has responded by claiming the protests are funded by paid protestors and has even accused his former friend Reid Hoffman of backing the movement.
The “Tesla Takedown” movement, which started on X (formerly Twitter), was initially a grassroots effort aimed at putting pressure on Musk over concerns that he is financing an authoritarian regime in the US. Musk’s wealth is tied to Tesla, which many believe represents a significant portion of his fortune.
However, after a massive demonstration last weekend, where hundreds of people took to the streets, Musk went on a rant claiming the protests were paid for by external forces. He shared supposed evidence, including a Fox News article, but experts say none of it provides credible proof.
In reality, the protests likely followed standard protocol for large demonstrations, with attendees required to leave at specific times and follow local laws. Musk’s claims are unfounded and demonstrate a lack of understanding about free speech rights.
The situation has taken a turn when Musk accused Hoffman of funding the protests. Hoffman responded by telling Musk that he should accept that many people disagree with him. Meanwhile, Musk himself organized a rally to promote a Republican candidate for Wisconsin Supreme Court, where attendees received financial incentives.
Many are questioning Musk’s credibility and calling out his hypocrisy. Tesla owners who initially bought cars as an expression of values now protest due to Musk’s shifting stance. The company can address this by returning to its core values.
The situation has strengthened the “Tesla Takedown” movement’s arguments that Musk is financing a fascist authoritarian takeover of government. Trump recently stated he’s serious about running for a third term, citing no credible evidence or constitutional basis for such a claim.
Source: https://electrek.co/2025/03/31/elon-musk-loses-mind-over-tesla-protests-claims-paid-protestors-dumb-proof