Tesla Faces Backlash as Demonstrators Decry Musk’s Political Influence

Over a dozen protesters assembled outside a Tesla store in the Austin area on Saturday, participating in a nationwide series of demonstrations aimed at addressing Elon Musk’s increasing influence in government.

With signs in hand and voices raised, organizers called on individuals to "sell your Teslas, dump your stock, join the picket lines," conveying their anger towards Musk’s involvement in President Donald Trump’s administration. Protests of a similar nature emerged nationwide, with crowds reaching up to 100 individuals gathered outside Tesla dealerships in cities including New York, Seattle, and Kansas City.

Organizers report that demonstrations occurred in numerous locations, highlighting increasing apprehension regarding Musk’s association with Trump’s policies, particularly significant government reductions via his recently established “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE).

Critics contend that DOGE's extensive layoffs of federal employees may lead to unlawful and destabilizing repercussions. The backlash has extended to Tesla’s customer base, especially in progressive states such as California, which is a crucial market for the electric car giant.

Certain Tesla investors are concerned that Musk's political connections may negatively impact sales. Musician Sheryl Crow participated in the protest by sharing a video of her Tesla being towed away. She mentioned that she sold the car and donated the proceeds to NPR, which she claims is “under threat by President Musk.”

As future protests are anticipated, including one at the Texas Capitol, the debate over Musk’s political influence intensifies.

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