MUSKTU 
Growing Backlash Against Musk and Tesla Sparks Boycotts and Protests
Tesla owners, once proud to be part of the electric vehicle revolution, are now increasingly distancing themselves from the brand due to rising public backlash against CEO Elon Musk. As the controversy surrounding Musk’s influence and actions intensifies, many Tesla owners feel embarrassed to be associated with the company.
The Impact of Musk’s Controversial Actions on Tesla’s Reputation
The growing fury against Tesla and Musk has led to some extreme actions. In several cities across North America and Europe, protesters have taken to the streets to express their dissatisfaction with Musk’s leadership. Incidents such as Molotov cocktails being thrown at a Tesla showroom in Las Vegas and multiple Tesla cars being vandalized in Hamilton have highlighted the severity of the situation. Additionally, the Vancouver International Auto Show made the decision to remove Tesla from its event due to safety concerns.
For many, Musk’s behavior has become inseparable from the Tesla brand. John Suk, a former Tesla owner from St. Catharines, Ontario, sold his vehicle and replaced it with a Hyundai. While he admired Musk’s innovations in both the automotive and space industries, he could no longer support the company due to Musk’s controversial actions. Suk’s sentiments reflect a growing trend where Tesla owners are increasingly vocal about their discontent.
Boycotts and Protests: A Growing Movement
The sentiment against Musk and Tesla is particularly strong in Canada, where the wave of protests—dubbed “Tesla Takedown”—has been gaining momentum. These protests are largely driven by Musk’s involvement in political issues, including his support for controversial cuts to the U.S. federal workforce and canceling contracts related to humanitarian efforts. As the movement grows, more Tesla owners are choosing to part ways with the company, further highlighting the disconnect between Musk’s actions and the brand’s supporters.
Marvin Ryder, an associate professor of marketing at McMaster University, explained that the negative sentiment stems from Musk’s decision to make his personal identity inseparable from his business ventures. This move has made some investors and Tesla stockholders unhappy, as the company’s image is being tarnished by Musk’s actions. Ryder suggested that Musk should consider stepping down as Tesla’s CEO to focus on his work with Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a position announced by President Donald Trump before taking office. By doing so, Musk could separate himself from Tesla’s day-to-day operations while continuing his other political work.