16:53
World Business
Demonstrations spread as Tesla faces backlash over government cuts
Associated Press
Protesters gathered outside Tesla stores across the U.S. and Europe, denouncing Elon Musk’s role in government spending cuts under President Donald Trump. The demonstrations are part of a growing backlash against Musk’s influence in Washington.
Nationwide Tesla Boycotts
Liberal groups have organized protests for weeks, urging consumers to boycott Tesla over Musk’s leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has slashed federal jobs and funding.
“We can get back at Elon,” said Nathan Phillips, a 58-year-old protester in Boston. “Boycott Tesla, sell your stocks, and make a statement.”
More than 50 protests took place nationwide, including in New York City, St. Louis, Charlotte, and Palo Alto. In New York, nine demonstrators were arrested.
Musk’s Government Influence
Musk, who runs Tesla, SpaceX, and social media platform X, has been a key figure in Trump’s cost-cutting push. DOGE has already:
Cut thousands of federal jobs.
Canceled government contracts.
Shut down U.S. foreign aid programs.
Critics say Musk’s actions bypass Congress’s control over the federal budget and could financially benefit his own companies.
Growing Tensions and Vandalism
The protests have led to reports of vandalism against Tesla vehicles, including swastikas spray-painted on cars. A woman in Colorado was charged with attacking a Tesla dealership using Molotov cocktails.
Despite the backlash, the White House remains firm.
“Protests will not deter President Trump and Elon Musk from making government more efficient,” said White House spokesperson Harrison Fields.
Tesla’s Market Struggles
Tesla’s stock has dropped nearly 30% since Trump took office, though it remains above last year’s value. Musk’s net worth now stands at $359 billion, according to Forbes.
With more protests planned in England, Spain, and Portugal, demonstrations against Tesla’s political ties show no signs of slowing down.
12:06
Newshour with Guy Shone
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