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Tesla Takedown: A Global Protest Movement Takes on Elon Musk

On Saturday, March 29th, 2025, a wave of protests swept across the globe, targeting Tesla showrooms and dealerships. Dubbed the “Tesla Takedown,” this wasn’t your average consumer rights demonstration. This was a coordinated, multi-city effort fueled by outrage over Elon Musk’s alleged misuse of Dogecoin (DOGE) to undermine humanitarian aid, dismantle federal agencies, and purge government workers. The protests, which had been building steadily for nearly two months, represented a culmination of sustained activism aimed at impacting Tesla’s sales and, ultimately, Musk himself.

The Spark Igniting the Flame

The root of the Tesla Takedown lies in accusations against Elon Musk and his controversial use of Dogecoin. Allegations surfaced suggesting that Musk leveraged DOGE, the meme-based cryptocurrency, to manipulate government processes for his own gain. This involved claims of funding cuts to critical humanitarian programs, the systematic dismantling of federal agencies, and mass government layoffs. The details surrounding these accusations remain complex and are still under investigation, but they ignited a firestorm of public protest.

A Global Day of Action

March 29th was declared a “Global Day of Action,” with hundreds of Tesla locations in the US, Canada, and Europe becoming targets. The scale and organization of the protests were remarkable, indicating a well-coordinated and highly motivated movement. Protesters, armed with signs and chants, took to the streets, expressing their discontent with Musk’s alleged actions and the perceived negative impact on society.

Observing the Movement: On the Ground in Multiple Cities

To understand the depth of the movement and the motivations of its participants, a team of observers fanned out across the globe. From the bustling streets of London to the iconic landmarks of New York City, from the political heart of Washington, D.C., to the sprawling expanse of Los Angeles, and even smaller cities like Paramus, NJ, and Akron, Ohio, we witnessed the widespread nature of the protest. The sheer number of people participating and the energy they brought to the demonstrations were striking.

The Impact: Sales Slump and Stock Decline

The protests haven’t gone unnoticed. Since the Tesla Takedown began, Tesla’s sales figures have taken a significant hit, reflecting the impact of the boycott. The company’s stock has also experienced a substantial drop in value. This suggests that the protests are having a tangible effect on Tesla’s bottom line, a key objective of the movement.

Musk’s Response: Defiance and Threats

Despite the mounting pressure, Elon Musk shows no signs of backing down. Instead, he has escalated his rhetoric, issuing threats against anti-Tesla forces, hinting at potential legal action and leveraging his influence to counter the protests. This escalation has only served to further fuel the movement, solidifying the resolve of many participants.

Voices from the Protest: Motivations and Concerns

Speaking with protesters, a common theme emerged: a deep concern for the future. Many expressed outrage over the alleged misuse of DOGE and the perceived disregard for humanitarian needs. The dismantling of federal agencies and the mass firings of government workers were viewed as attacks on the very fabric of society. For many, the protests were not merely about Tesla; they were about broader societal issues and concerns about corporate power and ethical responsibility.

Counter-Protests: A Divided Opinion

Interestingly, amidst the widespread anti-Tesla protests, a smaller number of counter-protests also emerged. These counter-protests, while significantly smaller in scale, represented a dissenting voice, reflecting a divergence of opinion regarding Musk’s actions and the overall impact of the Tesla Takedown.

The Future of the Tesla Takedown

The Tesla Takedown is far from over. The movement has demonstrated its ability to organize and mobilize significant numbers of people across geographical boundaries. With Elon Musk’s defiant stance and the ongoing debate surrounding his actions, the protests are likely to continue, shaping the narrative surrounding Tesla and its controversial CEO.

Conclusion: A Movement Beyond Cars

The Tesla Takedown transcends the realm of automotive protests. It’s a complex social and political movement reflecting deeper concerns about corporate responsibility, the ethical use of technology, and the influence of powerful individuals on global affairs. The long-term impact remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Tesla Takedown has ignited a conversation that will continue to reverberate for years to come.


Source: The Verge