Join the Movement: Protesters Call for Boycott of Elon Musk’s Tesla Cars

Protests erupted outside Tesla dealerships around the world, including a significant gathering in Bristol. Demonstrators aimed their frustration at Elon Musk, the billionaire behind Tesla, voicing their concerns over his increased involvement in US politics.

During the "Tesla Takedown" protest on Saturday, participants brandished signs encouraging a boycott of the company. This event was part of a larger global action mirroring protests in the United States. In Bristol, one protester, Karl Scholz, shared his worries about current US political events. He expressed a hope that even discouraging a couple of potential Tesla buyers might send a message to Musk and other powerful figures.

Critics have become increasingly uneasy with Musk’s influence, especially after he took on the task of managing cost-cutting in the Department of Government Efficiency. This office has already laid off or offered buyouts to around 100,000 federal employees, accessing sensitive data on millions of Americans in the process.

Recent statistics show a steep decline in Tesla’s sales. In January 2025, sales in Europe dropped by 45% compared to the same month the previous year, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. This decline may reflect growing unease among consumers regarding Musk’s political maneuvering.

Meghan Watson, an organizer of the Bristol protest and a member of the group Americans for Action, explained their mission was to raise awareness of issues back in the US, despite being far from the political center in Washington, D.C. She indicated that many people share their concerns about Musk’s actions, emphasizing that protesting the purchase of Teslas could potentially influence the billionaire’s decisions.

The protest illustrates a broader sentiment on social media, where users are increasingly vocal about their feelings towards influential billionaires and their roles in politics. The hashtag #BoycottTesla trended during the protests, showcasing widespread opposition.

As Musk continues to evolve his influence in global politics and business, reactions like these highlight the growing divide between consumers and billionaire executives. It’s a reminder that purchases and investment decisions can be about more than just products—they represent values and beliefs that resonate deeply with the public.

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