Uncovering the Anti-DOGE Protests: How Tesla Stores Challenge Elon Musk’s Profits

BOSTON — Protests erupted outside Tesla stores across the U.S. on Saturday, aimed at criticizing CEO Elon Musk and his alliance with President Trump, particularly regarding government budget cuts. These demonstrations reflect a rising backlash against Musk’s influence in politics.

Many demonstrators hope to discourage potential Tesla buyers, targeting the electric car giant as a symbol of Musk’s controversial actions. Liberal groups have been organizing protests to rally opposition against Musk’s push for government efficiency, especially after Trump’s election.

Nathan Phillips, an ecologist from Newton, Massachusetts, joined the protest in Boston. He expressed, “We can create economic impact on Tesla by showcasing our dissent. We want people to think twice before buying a Tesla or investing in their stocks.”

Musk, who also runs SpaceX and the social media platform X, is reportedly following Trump’s directive to reduce federal spending and government staff. Critics argue that his decisions usurp Congress’s role in budget management and offer him potential personal gains.

A spokesperson for the White House, Harrison Fields, responded to the protests, saying they wouldn’t hinder Musk or Trump’s plans for government reform aimed at efficiency and accountability.

More than 50 protests were planned, some underway in cities like Tucson, New York City, and Palo Alto. A troubling trend has emerged as well, with reports of vandalism against Tesla cars, including incidents of antisemitic graffiti. One woman has been charged with vandalizing a Colorado dealership, which saw Molotov cocktails and hateful slogans.

In Boston, the protest had a lively spirit. Musicians played as participants waved signs, with slogans lampooning Musk. Carina Campobasso, a retired federal worker, voiced her frustrations about the current government, stating, “We’re here to put a stop to this madness.”

New York City saw about 300 demonstrators, with some arrests made by police, though details on those taken into custody remain unclear. Tesla’s stock has dropped nearly a third since Trump’s presidency began, though it’s still up from a year ago. Musk’s wealth is estimated at about $359 billion.

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