'Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go': 277 Tesla locations targeted in US protests demanding for Elon Musk's resignation

Protests erupted across the United States and parts of Europe on March 30, 2025, as demonstrators gathered outside 277 Tesla dealerships, demanding Elon Musk’s resignation from his government role. Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been accused by critics of using his position to influence policy, cut government spending, and access sensitive data. The demonstrations, organized by environmental activists, Tesla customers, and political figures, mark a significant moment in the growing public backlash against Musk’s involvement in governance.
The coordinated protests reflect mounting concerns about Musk’s influence on both the private and public sectors. While some demonstrators focused on Musk’s political role, others voiced frustration over Tesla’s declining product quality and alleged anti-union practices. With Tesla’s sales already facing a downturn, organizers hope to intensify financial pressure on the automaker. Meanwhile, isolated incidents of vandalism against Tesla vehicles and properties have sparked debates on protest tactics.

Demonstrators in major cities, including New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and San Francisco, took to the streets in what has been described as one of the largest coordinated protests against a tech billionaire in recent history. Protesters carried banners reading "Stop Musk, Save Democracy" and "No Billionaire Should Control Government."
In New York City, hundreds gathered outside Tesla’s Manhattan showroom, demanding Musk step down from his government role. The protests coincided with Tesla’s recent struggles in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with declining sales and increased competition from global automakers.
In Los Angeles, a group of former Tesla employees joined the demonstration, criticizing the company’s labor policies and expressing concerns about Musk’s growing political power. Meanwhile, smaller protests were reported in Chicago, Boston, and Seattle, with activists vowing to continue their demonstrations until Musk resigns.
Beyond the U.S., protests also reached London, where demonstrators gathered outside a Tesla dealership, holding signs denouncing Musk. Some protesters compared Musk’s rise to authoritarian figures, reflecting deep-seated fears about his growing political influence.

One of the key groups behind the protests, Planet Over Profit, an environmental activist organization, argues that Musk’s policies within DOGE threaten environmental regulations and sustainability efforts. The group released a statement saying:
"Elon Musk is using his power to weaken climate policies and prioritize corporate interests over the planet. His influence in government must be stopped before irreversible damage is done."
Amy Neifeld, a 70-year-old psychologist and longtime activist, joined the New York City protest, stating that Musk's leadership is pushing the U.S. towards authoritarianism. "I grew up understanding the dangers of unchecked power. Musk is moving too quickly, and we have to act before it's too late," she told AFP.
A Democratic lawmaker, who chose to remain anonymous, attended a Washington, D.C., protest, calling for congressional investigations into Musk’s government role. "We cannot allow billionaires to dictate national policy. This is a threat to democracy," they stated.

While most protests remained peaceful, there were reports of vandalism against Tesla properties. In some locations, Tesla vehicles were spray-painted, windows were smashed, and cars were set on fire. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned these acts, labeling them "domestic terrorism."
In response to the attacks, Musk addressed Tesla employees during a March 20 company meeting, calling the incidents "insane" and urging protesters to "stop acting psycho."
Security has since been increased at Tesla dealerships nationwide, and law enforcement agencies have launched investigations into the vandalism cases.

Tesla, once the leader in the electric vehicle industry, has been facing challenges in recent months. Increased competition from legacy automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Volkswagen, along with emerging Chinese EV brands, has impacted Tesla’s market share. Additionally, concerns over Tesla’s build quality, labor conditions, and price fluctuations have led to dissatisfaction among consumers.
Industry analysts suggest that the protests could further damage Tesla’s reputation and sales. If the demonstrations continue, they may influence investor confidence and stock performance, potentially affecting Musk’s ability to maintain control over both Tesla and his government position.