Tesla showrooms across the United States are set to become sites of protest this weekend as activists voice their concerns over Tesla CEO Elon Musk. The planned demonstrations, scheduled for February 15-16, 2025, stem from growing outrage over Musk’s alleged political involvement, particularly his reported support for former president Donald Trump’s administration. This controversy is raising concerns not only about Musk’s public image but also about the long-term financial health of Tesla.

Why Are People Protesting Tesla?

The protests primarily center on accusations that Musk has played a role in Trump-related political activities, including influencing government agency closures and the dismissal of federal employees. Critics argue that his actions reflect authoritarian tendencies, with some activists going as far as labeling him a “fascist.” The movement against Musk has gained momentum on social media, trending under hashtags like #TeslaTakeover and #TeslaTakedown.

Actor and activist Alex Winter, best known for his role in *Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure*, has been an outspoken advocate for the protests. He has used social media platform BlueSky to rally support, amplifying the call for action. Meanwhile, some Tesla shareholders are increasingly anxious about the impact Musk’s political controversies are having on the company’s brand and stock value. Despite these concerns, Musk continues to maintain strong backing from key investors.

A Growing Movement with Controversial Actions

Organizers have listed more than three dozen demonstrations on the activist platform Action Network, encouraging Tesla owners to either divest from the company or join the protests. However, not all demonstrations have remained peaceful. Reports have emerged of Tesla vehicles being vandalized, with disturbing images circulating online, including cars defaced with swastikas and stickers depicting Musk saluting at Trump’s inauguration.

In Arcata, California, Tesla owners received threatening notes left on their vehicles with the message, “No Nazis in America,” pressuring them to sell their cars or face potential repercussions. These incidents have raised concerns about the movement shifting from a peaceful protest into more extreme measures. While many demonstrators insist on nonviolent activism, the growing number of hostile actions has sparked internal debates about the best path forward.

Is Tesla’s Future at Risk?

Tesla’s stock has suffered notable declines amid the controversy. Since Trump’s inauguration, the company’s shares have fallen by 21%, contributing to an overall 30% decline from their peak last December. Adding to the company’s struggles, Tesla has reported its first annual decline in sales in over a decade, further fueling concerns about its ability to maintain dominance in the electric vehicle market.

The situation in Europe is even more concerning. Tesla has seen steep declines in key markets like Norway, France, and Spain, reflecting a broader struggle to sustain its growth. Some shareholders are now calling for Musk to step down as CEO, arguing that his political entanglements are eroding consumer trust and harming Tesla’s long-term prospects.

What This Means for Tesla and Its Customers

The upcoming protests mark a critical moment for Tesla. Once hailed as a leader in electric vehicle innovation, the company is now at the center of a heated political and social debate. While many loyal customers continue to back Musk’s leadership, others are rethinking their support in light of the mounting controversy.

For Tesla owners, the issue goes beyond the vehicles themselves—it raises ethical questions about supporting a brand whose CEO is embroiled in political turmoil. Whether these demonstrations will compel Tesla to implement changes remains uncertain, but Musk’s public image, once a major strength, is now turning into a significant liability for the company.

With tensions escalating, Tesla faces increasing pressure to address investor and customer concerns. The coming weeks may prove pivotal in determining the company’s next steps and Musk’s role in its future.