Protesters gathered at Tesla showrooms throughout the United States and Europe on Saturday to demonstrate against CEO Elon Musk, who wields significant influence as a key adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Carrying placards reading “Musk is pocketing our funds” and “Take back our nation,” the demonstrations occurred without incident after a series of heated incidents involving the destruction of Tesla vehicles in the past few weeks. These acts have been condemned by U.S. authorities as terrorism.
On Saturday, hundreds gathered outside the Tesla showroom in New York City’s Manhattan district.
Some blasted Musk, the world’s richest man, while others demanded the shuttering of his so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is dramatically slashing the federal government.
Amy Neifect, a 70-year-old psychologist who hadn’t participated in a protest since her involvement with anti-Vietnam War demonstrations in the 1970s, stated that Musk is steering the nation towards “fascism.”
“I am Jewish, which means I was raised with a deep understanding of fascism,” she explained to AFP. “Since Trump’s return to the White House, it has only become more disturbing.”
He behaves as though he’s the vice president,” stated New York protestor Eva Mueller. “He is systematically destroying our government and undermining our democracy.
The demonstration was orchestrated by the eco-activist organization Planet Over Profit, asserting that halting Musk’s activities will aid in saving lives and safeguarding our democracy.
In the upscale Georgetown area of Washington, approximately 150 individuals convened with enthusiasm on an unexpectedly mild day, joyfully dancing and shouting cheers as they waved at motorists who beeped their horns in response.
Demonstrations were held in states like Florida, Massachusetts, and California, along with various cities across Europe including London, Berlin, and Paris.
A handful of Americans stood with placards outside a Tesla showroom in Paris, France, featuring messages such as “Ship Musk to Mars immediately.”
Musk and Trump “are undermining our democracy, disregarding fundamental national regulations, and dismissing individuals employed at crucial governmental organizations,” stated Raf, a 59-year-old demonstrator from Paris who chose to withhold his surname.
When asked about their response to the protests, Tesla did not provide an immediate comment.
Vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and various facilities has persisted for several weeks now. This destructive behavior serves as a protest against two main issues: Musk’s severe layoffs and his perceived inappropriate involvement in political matters.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has labeled the assaults on Tesla as “acts of domestic terrorism.”
