Demonstrators gathered nationwide outside Tesla showrooms on Saturday, protesting CEO Elon Musk’s federal cost-cutting role in the Department of Government Efficiency. The “Tesla Takedown” movement, a boycott that began on February 15, aims to hold Musk accountable for reducing thousands of government jobs and proposing a massive downsizing of the IRS.
Led by Hollywood actor Alex Winter and assistant professor Joan Donovan, the movement is spreading across the US, with over 80 demonstrations planned for Saturday. Participants urge people to “sell their Teslas, dump your stock, join the picket lines.” Despite Tesla’s silence on the matter, hundreds gathered outside showrooms in cities like Baltimore (300+) and Washington D.C.
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi vowed to crack down on vandalism against Tesla vehicles, calling those involved “watch out because we’re coming after you.” Meanwhile, President Donald Trump appeared with Musk at the White House, showcasing five Tesla vehicles. While this may boost short-term sales, experts are uncertain if it will convert potential buyers.
Tesla’s stock price has plummeted 48% since its peak in December, and the company’s reputation is taking a hit. Negative opinions of Elon Musk could lead consumers to research alternative EV options, weakening Tesla’s market share. However, not everyone can afford to make decisions about their vehicles due to financial constraints. As protests continue, it remains to be seen if they will have an impact on Musk’s leadership and the company’s future.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/15/business/elon-musk-tesla-demonstrations-doge/index.html