‘Astroturf’: Critics speculate Tesla protests are not a grassroots movement, but carefully organized campaign
The protests unfolded outside of Tesla showrooms across the country this weekend over Elon Musk’s role helping lead President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, sparking questions to fly as to who is funding the purported “grassroots” demonstrations. The movement, dubbed “Tesla Takedown,” saw more than 200 protests planned on Saturday in the U.S., along with a few hundred planned protests in Canada and Europe as part of a “global day of action.”
Critics of Musk and the Trump administration accuse them of creating an “oligarchy” by tapping the billionaire to help streamline federal government operations. Musk and his DOGE team have been investigating federal agencies in search of government overspending, fraud, and mismanagement, leading to backlash and violence directed at Tesla locations in recent weeks.
The protests on Saturday were billed as “nonviolent” and showcased people line dancing outside Tesla stores while holding anti-swastika and anti-Musk signs. Some protesters held signs reading “DON’T BUY SWASTICAR” or “Nobody elected Elon.” The protests stretched from New York to California, with larger protests drawing crowds of over 100 people in some cities.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, there have been accusations of “astroturfing,” which is a campaign falsely made to appear grassroots. Some critics speculate that the protests are being funded and organized by national political organizations like the Indivisible Project and MoveOn.org. Podcast host Joe Rogan even suggested that protesters may be receiving money to take part in the anti-Tesla demonstrations.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has warned that violent protesters who attack and cause damage at Tesla showrooms will face the full force of the law. Earlier this month, a Las Vegas man was arrested for his alleged involvement in a Molotov cocktail attack on a Tesla property. Bondi emphasized that the days of committing crimes without consequence have ended, and those engaging in domestic terrorism will be put behind bars.
As the protests continue, questions remain about the true nature of the demonstrations and who is behind them. Despite the accusations of astroturfing, the protesters maintain that their movement is a peaceful exercise of their First Amendment rights. Tesla owners and supporters are also speaking out against the violence and vandalism, urging for a more civil and respectful approach to expressing dissent.
