Tech billionaire Elon Musk has responded strongly to protests targeting him and his policies. Addressing the situation on X, Musk clarified that there are no cuts to Medicaid, Social Security, or other entitlements, except for measures aimed at curbing fraud.
He also condemned the organisation of campaigns calling for violence, labelling such actions as illegal.
Musk emphasised that those responsible for funding and organising these campaigns would be identified and prosecuted.
Elon Musk’s comments come as protests erupted outside Tesla dealerships across the US and parts of Europe, targeting his influence and policies under President Donald Trump.
The protesters were trying to escalate a movement targeting Tesla dealerships and vehicles in opposition to Musk’s role as the head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. The biggest portion of Musk’s estimated $340 billion fortune consists of his stock in the electric vehicle company, which continues to run while also working alongside Trump.
After earlier demonstrations that were somewhat sporadic, Saturday marked the first attempt to surround all 277 of the automaker’s showrooms and service centres in the US in hopes of deepening a recent decline in the company’s sales.
Hundreds of protesters had flocked to Tesla locations in New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Maryland, Minnesota and the automaker’s home state of Texas. Pictures posted on social media showed protesters brandishing signs such as “ Honk if you hate Elon ” and “ Fight the billionaire broligarchy.”
Anti-Musk sentiment extends beyond the US
The Tesla Takedown movement also hoped to rally protesters at more than 230 locations in other parts of the world. Although the turnouts in Europe were not as large, the anti-Musk sentiment was similar.
About two dozen people held signs lambasting the billionaire outside a dealership in London as passing cars and trucks tooted horns in support.
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