Demonstrators target Tesla dealerships over Musk’s political involvement and leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), citing concerns over democracy, data access, and fascism
Washington, DC [US], March 30: In a sweeping show of dissent, protesters across the United States and Europe rallied outside Tesla dealerships on Saturday, calling for Elon Musk to step down from his governmental role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The protests, coordinated by environmentalists, celebrities, and political activists, marked the first nationwide demonstration targeting all 277 Tesla locations in the US, according to Al Jazeera.
The coordinated protests stem from rising concerns over Musk’s access to sensitive government data, his aggressive budget-slashing reforms, and what many see as an increasing threat to democratic values.
In New York City, hundreds assembled outside the Manhattan Tesla showroom, demanding Musk’s resignation and linking his policies to democratic backsliding. Protesters hope their movement will also impact Tesla’s plummeting sales amid growing public scrutiny.
The demonstrations were spearheaded by Planet Over Profit, an environmental advocacy group that released a statement saying, “Stopping Musk will save lives and protect our democracy.”
🔹 “We’re Moving Toward Fascism”
One protester, Amy Neifeld, a 70-year-old psychologist, compared Musk’s influence to fascist ideologies.
“I’m Jewish, and I grew up with a deep awareness of what fascism is. It’s only gotten worse since Trump’s election. We have to do something quickly because he’s moving very fast,” she told AFP.
🔹 Protests Spread Globally
In London, dozens held signs outside a local Tesla showroom. Some banners controversially compared Musk to Adolf Hitler, echoing concerns that surfaced after Musk’s alleged salute at a Trump inauguration event.
Protesters held signs urging the public to boycott Tesla and resist Musk’s influence in public institutions.
🔹 Acts of Vandalism Escalate
While most demonstrations were peaceful, some incidents have turned violent. Multiple Tesla vehicles were vandalized or set on fire, actions that US Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned as acts of “domestic terrorism.”
Musk responded during a company meeting on March 20, expressing disbelief at the attacks and urging people to “stop acting psycho.”
The Tesla CEO, known for his ventures across tech, automotive, and now government, remains a polarizing figure. With growing scrutiny, political pressure, and public protest, his dual role as a corporate titan and government leader continues to face sharp backlash.
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