On Saturday, March 29, 2025, a wave of protests erupted across the United States, targeting Tesla dealerships and igniting passionate debates about the roles of billionaire Elon Musk and former President Donald Trump in American politics. In Northern California, nearly 300 demonstrators gathered at the Tesla Rocklin Showroom for a "Tesla Takedown" event, denouncing what they perceive as threats to democracy posed by Musk and Trump.
Organizers of the protest expressed their dissatisfaction with the Trump administration and Musk's leadership, particularly criticizing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an agency established by Trump to streamline federal spending. "Trump and Musk are actively working to dismantle and defund the federal government, putting Social Security and other vital services at risk of ending," the event's press release stated.
Barbara Brass, one of the event organizers, articulated her motivations for participating in the protest. "This is about saving democracy," she declared. "Everybody deserves a good life, and that’s what our democracy was trying to do – and that’s what they (Musk/Trump) are trying to break." Brass, a member of the LGBTQ community, voiced her concerns about billionaires undermining her rights in America. "I just had to get involved. These protests are my way of keeping my mental health," she added.
Meanwhile, in Sacramento, another protest unfolded at a Tesla dealership on Arden Way. Here, sentiments were mixed as some demonstrators rallied against Musk and Trump, while others expressed support for their policies. Peggy Sawyer, a former California legislator, defended Musk’s approach to government spending. "I believe that there is so much waste in government and how our tax dollars are used. I find it refreshing that someone is willing to look at where our tax dollars go," she stated.
These protests come amid a nationwide surge in vandalism against Tesla vehicles and facilities, corresponding with Musk's controversial involvement in government. In Albuquerque, New Mexico, a family was left feeling unsafe after their Tesla Cybertruck was vandalized. The owner, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted a distressing incident where a man was caught on video keying and kicking their vehicle. "It made me very angry. It frightened my kids. You know, we just don’t feel safe," the owner said, reflecting a growing unease among Tesla owners amidst the protests.
Earlier in March, the same family experienced another act of vandalism when someone wrote the word "Sad" on their truck's window. Despite the attacks, the owners remain committed to their vehicles, stating, "If you don’t like Tesla, don’t get yourself a vehicle, but don’t vandalize other people’s car like that." They expressed frustration over the actions of those who target Tesla owners, highlighting a divide in public sentiment towards the brand.
In response to the escalating protests, Elon Musk called for the arrest and prosecution of those organizing the anti-Tesla demonstrations. On March 30, 2025, Musk took to social media to express his discontent, stating, "First of all, there are no cuts to Medicaid, Social Security or other entitlements, unless stopping fraud is considered a 'cut.' Second, organizing a campaign to call for the death of someone is illegal. The organizers and funders will be found and prosecuted." His comments reflect a broader trend among conservatives who have suggested targeting dissenting protesters.
The protests were framed as a "global day of action," aiming to impact Musk financially by encouraging individuals to sell or dump Tesla stock. Critics argue that Musk’s leadership has led to significant cuts in federal programs, while his companies reportedly earn $8 million a day from government contracts. This juxtaposition has fueled the anger of protesters who feel that Musk's actions are detrimental to public welfare.
In a recent video posted on social media, Musk shared footage of protesters confronting a Cybertruck driver, further escalating tensions. He stated, "It is time to arrest those funding the attacks. Arresting their puppets and paid foot-soldiers won't stop the violence." His call for legal action against protest organizers has raised questions about the balance between free speech and the right to protest.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued warnings regarding the rise in vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles, describing the actions as potentially motivated by lone offenders. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized the recent surge in violent attacks on Tesla property as "domestic terrorism," emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The Department of Justice has initiated investigations into these incidents, with several perpetrators already charged.
As protests continue, the FBI is launching a task force aimed at addressing violent acts against Tesla. Ben Williamson, assistant director for public affairs at the FBI, confirmed the agency's commitment to cracking down on these attacks. Legal experts are closely monitoring whether Musk will follow through on his threats to pursue legal action against protest organizers.
In a statement from protest organizers, they asserted, "Elon Musk is destroying our democracy, and he's using the fortune he built at Tesla to do it. We are taking action at Tesla to stop Musk's illegal coup." This sentiment encapsulates the anger and frustration felt by many who believe that Musk's influence is harmful to the democratic process.
As the protests evolve and tensions rise, both supporters and opponents of Musk and Trump remain deeply divided. The ongoing conflict highlights the complexities of American political discourse, particularly as it intersects with corporate influence and individual rights. With the future of Tesla and its role in the broader political landscape uncertain, the coming weeks will likely see continued activism and debate surrounding these issues.
