Protests against Elon Musk’s involvement in government have spread across the U.S., with demonstrations taking place in several states, including New York, Oregon, Washington, and California. The largest protest occurred at a Tesla showroom in New York, where many were arrested after occupying the building.
On Saturday, a group of protesters gathered at the Tesla showroom in Manhattan, demanding an end to Musk’s growing influence in government. Several people were detained by police after they refused to leave the building. Videos shared on social media show police escorting protesters out of the showroom, with one of those arrested shouting, “F*** Elon Musk” as they were taken away in handcuffs.
Protesters chanted slogans like “Elon Musk is not elected” and “Stop the coup.” The demonstration caused the showroom to shut down, and a broken glass door was visible in footage from the scene.
Tesla facilities and charging stations have been increasingly targeted in recent weeks, especially as Musk has become more involved with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and his connection to President Donald Trump’s administration. These actions are part of a larger movement that sees Musk as using his wealth and power to influence political decisions.
One protester, who identified themselves as Frankie, explained, “I’m getting arrested protesting Elon Musk. He bought his way into power. He bought his way into heading a government agency. He bought his power at the expense of the American people, at the expense of our environment, at the expense of our world and all of the people in it.”
Beyond New York, protests have also taken place in other parts of the country. In Oregon, demonstrators have targeted Tesla dealerships, including one incident where a Molotov cocktail was thrown at a showroom. In Washington and California, similar protests have led to vandalism at Tesla locations and charging stations. These actions reflect a growing anger towards Musk’s influence in politics and his role in the Trump administration.
On Saturday morning, Musk suggested that these protests were part of an organized effort by ActBlue, a political action committee. He claimed that five ActBlue-funded groups were responsible for the protests and that they were working to undermine his work with the government. Musk also alleged that ActBlue was under investigation for violating campaign finance laws.
The Washington Post reported that Tesla locations nationwide have faced more than a dozen violent or destructive acts since Trump’s inauguration. These incidents include shootings, arson, and other forms of vandalism at Tesla facilities.
These protests are part of a larger wave of discontent aimed at Musk’s growing political influence and his association with the Trump administration.
Videos of the latest protest in New York have been shared on social media. Watch the clips below:
BREAKING: HUNDREDS of New Yorkers have swarmed and shut down the Tesla dealer in Manhattan. Six have been arrested after occupying the showroom. Protests are erupting across America to reject Musk's billionaire regime. This is how we beat fascism.
Mass direct action. pic.twitter.com/jTQ4yxlpOd
— Planet Over Profit (@pop4climate) March 8, 2025
BREAKING: Protester dragged out of TESLA Showroom in Meatpacking District after protesters occupied inside pic.twitter.com/7Oqa4rdXtH
— Oliya Scootercaster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) March 8, 2025
BREAKING: Multiple Anti-Musk/Trump protesters arrested at Tesla in New York City after occupying the showroom pic.twitter.com/ednWrEQ0Vf
— NJEG Media (@NJEGmedia) March 8, 2025
