Protesters gathered at Tesla locations across America this weekend, calling it a “global day of action” against Elon Musk. Many held signs saying “Burn a Tesla, Save Democracy” while chanting slogans against the billionaire’s role in government spending cuts. These demonstrations turned ugly in some cities, with reports of vandalized cars and firebombed dealerships.
Law enforcement officials warned Tesla owners to park their vehicles after seven cars were torched in Germany. Former FBI agent Bill Daly called the attacks “domestic terrorism,” arguing that violent acts shouldn’t be confused with peaceful protests. Police departments nationwide increased patrols near Tesla sites, using surveillance to track potential threats.
Some protesters claimed they’re fighting corporate greed. “Musk is shredding our safety net to fund his buddies,” said Fred Margoulis at a New York rally. Counter-protesters waved American flags nearby, shouting “USA! USA!” One man told reporters, “If they hate capitalism, why use iPhones to organize?” as drivers honked in support.
Tesla sales dropped for the first time in 14 years following months of attacks. Dealership windows were smashed in Texas, while a Las Vegas man shot up cars spray-painted with “RESIST.” Despite this, Musk vowed Tesla remains “a peaceful company.” His lawyers blame anarchist groups for coordinating the violence online.
Local businesses faced backlash for supporting Tesla. A famous LA restaurant got bombarded with negative reviews after the owner praised Musk’s new diner concept. Management quickly posted, “We don’t take sides!” fearing lost customers. Similar panic spread through social media, with activists urging boycotts of any Tesla-friendly companies.
Protests spread to Europe, where London crowds compared Musk to Hitler. A man in a dinosaur costume held a sign reading “Don’t buy Swasticars.” Most gatherings stayed small, but German firefighters battled a suspicious blaze destroying multiple Teslas. Authorities haven’t confirmed if it’s linked to the demonstrations.
Organizers insist they’re nonviolent. “We just want people to sell their Teslas,” said New Jersey activist Natasha Purdum. However, Fox News footage showed masked individuals hurling bricks in California. Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to prosecute vandals, calling the destruction “an attack on law and order.”
Conservatives argue these protests endanger free speech. “Breaking things isn’t activism – it’s thuggery,” said talk radio host Jesse Kelly. Many see the movement as hypocritical, noting protesters use Musk’s Tesla-powered electricity grids to charge their megaphones. As tensions rise, ordinary Americans are left wondering when peaceful dissent became license to burn.
