Tesla Takedown Campaign Gains Momentum
In a significant development, activists behind the Tesla Takedown campaign are claiming a major victory following Elon Musk's departure from his advisory role in President Donald Trump's administration. The movement, which began as a series of protests outside Tesla showrooms across the United States, has been targeting Musk due to his involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the subsequent mass firings of federal workers. Reports indicate that since the start of 2025, Tesla's stock has plummeted by approximately 40% amid these protests and declining sales.
The campaign's focus on Tesla showrooms, with efforts to surround all 277 locations in the U.S., aimed to hit Musk's bottom line directly. Organizers like Valerie Costa have been at the forefront, peacefully protesting against what they see as Musk's undue influence in government restructuring. Costa has faced personal attacks from Musk on social media platforms, where he accused her of 'committing crimes,' a claim she and her supporters vehemently deny.
Musk's Departure and Its Implications for Tesla
Elon Musk's exit from the Trump administration, announced recently, has shifted the narrative for both Tesla and the protesters. Investors are hopeful that Musk will refocus on his business empire, particularly as Tesla battles slumping sales and SpaceX faces setbacks with recent rocket launches. This departure comes after months of tension, with Musk publicly stating in interviews that he does not wish to 'take responsibility for everything the administration's doing,' highlighting a rift over budget proposals clashing with DOGE's goals.
The protests have not ceased despite Musk's White House exit, with demonstrations continuing at Tesla dealerships in various cities like Golden Valley and Santa Monica. Posts on X reflect a polarized sentiment, with some users supporting the protesters' cause against perceived government overreach, while others defend Musk's efforts to expose waste and corruption. President Trump has also weighed in, labeling attacks on Tesla dealerships as 'domestic terrorism' during a promotional event with Musk earlier this year.
Future of the Tesla Takedown Movement
Looking ahead, the Tesla Takedown activists are planning to expand their efforts beyond showroom protests. Their stated goal is to continue challenging Musk's influence and the broader policies they associate with his tenure in government advisory roles. While specific plans remain unclear, the movement's persistence suggests that Tesla will remain under scrutiny, potentially impacting its market performance further.
As this situation unfolds, the intersection of corporate power and political influence remains a hot-button issue. The ongoing protests serve as a reminder of the deep divisions within public opinion regarding Musk's role and the Trump administration's policies. With both sides entrenched, the resolution of this conflict is far from certain, but the activists' resolve shows no signs of waning.