Protests against Elon Musk's "Doge" initiative erupted across the United States, with the most significant gathering occurring in Berkeley, California. Approximately 200 individuals congregated there to voice their discontent with Musk's controversial project. These demonstrations were not aimed at Tesla's electric vehicles, but rather at Musk's efforts to dismantle substantial parts of the U.S. government. Protesters organized under the hashtag #TeslaTakeover and coordinated their actions via the social media platform BlueSky.
The Berkeley protest saw attendees gathering outside Tesla showrooms, expressing dissatisfaction with Musk's "Doge" initiative. This initiative seeks to streamline government operations by reducing spending and reclaiming previously allocated funds. Protesters wielded signs with messages such as "Say no to Doge" and "Deport Musk."
The protests gained additional momentum through the support of public figures like Alex Winter, known for his role in the 1980s film "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure," and Joan Donovan, a prominent disinformation researcher. Singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow also lent her voice to the movement by posting a video on Instagram showing her Tesla being towed away. Crow announced that she was donating the proceeds from the car's sale to National Public Radio.
"There comes a time when you have to decide who you are willing to align with," – Sheryl Crow
This sentiment resonated with many Americans asking others to divest from Tesla stock and sell their Tesla vehicles as a symbolic gesture against Musk's actions. The protests were not confined to California; smaller gatherings took place in cities such as Washington DC, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, and Lyndhurst, Ohio. Despite facing cold weather and snow, protestors in these locations managed to assemble and express their opposition.
The protests represented a direct challenge to Elon Musk personally rather than an attack on Tesla's products. Linda Koistinen, a participant in the protests, stated her motivation stemmed from a desire to make a difference and oppose Musk's initiatives. The demonstrations occurred against a backdrop of fluctuating Tesla stock performance. Following an initial surge after Donald Trump's election, the stock has since declined by 30%.