Global Protests Against Tesla: Captivating Photos Highlight Worldwide Discontent with Elon Musk

On Saturday, protests erupted at Tesla showrooms across the globe, with the movement, known as "Tesla Takedown," targeting more than 500 locations. About half of these protests occurred in the U.S., where participants held signs calling for a boycott of Tesla and protesting Elon Musk’s political involvement.

These demonstrations spanned from California to Florida. Many protesters, like Patty Hoyt from Marin County, expressed discontent over Musk’s connection to the Trump administration, especially regarding job cuts impacting the Department of Veterans Affairs. "These are people we made promises to," she said, highlighting concerns about veterans relying on these resources.

The protests were not limited to America; they spread to several European countries, including France, Germany, and the UK. Musk’s controversial gestures at past events, such as what some interpreted as a Nazi salute during Trump’s inauguration, have heightened sensitivities, especially in Europe, where the history of Nazi occupation is deeply felt.

Interestingly, Musk’s political interests are not confined to the U.S. He previously endorsed the far-right German party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has gained traction recently, coming in second in Germany’s national elections last year.

Recent statistics reveal that Tesla’s sales in Europe plummeted by 42.6% in early 2023 compared to the same period last year, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. This decline has raised investor concerns that Musk’s political distractions are affecting Tesla’s performance.

Protests have escalated into more serious incidents. In Austin, Texas, police discovered incendiary devices at a Tesla dealership, while in Oregon, gunshots were fired at another Tesla location. Some owners of the Tesla Cybertruck reported feeling harassment and ridicule over their vehicle choice.

The backlash has caught the attention of the Trump administration, with officials condemning attacks on Tesla as "domestic terrorism." Attorney General Pamela Bondi warned that such actions would not go unpunished, highlighting the government’s stance on maintaining order during a time of unrest.

As Tesla navigates these turbulent waters, Musk’s focus on political matters may have significant implications for both his company and his public image. With protests drawing attention worldwide, it’s clear that Musk’s actions are stirring more than just conversation; they’re igniting a movement.

For further findings on the impacts of celebrity influence in politics, you can refer to studies published by the Pew Research Center here.

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