A large group of demonstrators gathered at Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade on Saturday, March 15, 2025, to protest against Tesla CEO Elon Musk, accusing him of using his wealth and influence to dismantle the U.S. federal government. The protest, organized under the Tesla Takedown movement, called for a boycott of Tesla, urging people to sell their vehicles, divest from Tesla stock, and join the picket lines.
Throughout the demonstration, protesters chanted slogans condemning Musk’s influence and corporate greed. Their voices rang out with calls of “Stop attacking workers now,” “Up, up, up with the workers! Down, down, down with the billionaires,” and “No justice, no peace.” Others shouted, “Elon Musk is a thief,” “Money for jobs and education, not for greedy corporations,” and “All power to the people.” Protesters also decried systemic exploitation, chanting, “No more greedy exploitation” and “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA.”
Several speakers took the microphone, delivering impassioned speeches about the economic and political consequences of Musk’s actions. A representative from the ANSWER Coalition (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) addressed the crowd, warning against corporate and government corruption. “Are we going to stand by while Musk and his gang steal our jobs, abandon our children, and leave workers living paycheck to paycheck? No! The politicians have left us behind—we have to fight for ourselves, and we will win because the vast majority of people are with us,” the speaker declared.
The demonstration remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing their commitment to nonviolent resistance and exercising their First Amendment right to protest. Authorities monitored the event, but no major incidents were reported.
The Santa Monica protest was part of a larger nationwide movement, with similar demonstrations occurring in other cities. Protesters aim to disrupt Tesla’s financial standing as a means of countering Musk’s growing political influence. Neither Elon Musk nor Tesla representatives have issued a formal response to the protest. However, recent statements from Musk and President Donald Trump have characterized the demonstrations as an attack on corporate innovation.
The Tesla Takedown movement remains steadfast in its calls for continued action, urging supporters to boycott Tesla, demand corporate accountability, and challenge economic inequality. Organizers say more demonstrations are planned in the coming weeks as the movement continues to grow.