Protests Continue Against Elon Musk, Now Targeting His New Diner
Following previous actions that included setting off Molotov cocktails in a vehicle and vandalizing a showroom, protesters are now turning their attention to Elon Musk’s newly opened retro-themed diner in Hollywood.
In one recent demonstration, a large inflatable balloon resembling Musk was seen giving a Nazi salute while protesters chanted nearby, with some attendees wearing Tesla-branded T-shirts and black MAGA hats.
Social media footage captured a protester positioned in front of a Cybertruck, using creative tactics to deter diners, like flipping birds upside down to discourage patrons from entering the parking lot.
On the flip side, die-hard Musk supporters were also present, claiming that one YouTube user waited about 11 hours to try the diner on opening day.
Video footage from the scene showed over 20 vehicles lined up around the block as customers awaited orders, indicating a strong interest despite the protests.
Last weekend, roughly 75 individuals rallied at the 24-hour diner, which had opened somewhat unexpectedly after years of promotion centered around Musk’s vision of a “retro drive-in, roller skating, rock restaurant.”
The diner boasts electric vehicle charging stations, while its entrance resembles a gleaming portal adorned with neon red stripes.
At the opening, Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot served fresh popcorn, and menu offerings included the uniquely packaged Cybertruck box burger and $12 maple-glazed bacon.
On the diner’s top deck, patrons can enjoy meals while watching full-length movies projected on a large screen every night, complete with tables and chairs for a comfortable experience.
Despite the diner’s buzz, protesters remain hopeful that the initial excitement will fade. “This is the world’s most infamous anti-trans advocate who just opened a diner in West Hollywood, and the community isn’t very supportive,” said Joel Lava, a protest leader, during an interview.
Attendance at these protests peaked in March but seems to maintain a consistent presence, according to Lava.
The Tesla Takedown website currently lists 45 upcoming protests aimed at emphasizing opposition to Musk’s business practices. “Our main message is that Tesla funds dangerous ideologies. Elon Musk has disrupted government agencies, affecting people’s jobs worldwide,” Lava noted.
He also suggested that the brand has suffered significant damage due to ongoing protests, pointing to a recent report of the worst sales decline for Tesla in a decade and revenues that fell short of Wall Street expectations.
Additionally, Tesla has been losing market share internationally to competitors like the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD.
Despite these challenges, company executives express optimism about future innovations, including humanoid robots and Robotaxis. However, these ventures demand substantial investments and carry inherent risks. With the expiration of tariffs and federal EV tax credits, Tesla may face more significant obstacles ahead.
While Tesla stock has taken a hit—reportedly down over 15% this year—many tech stocks and the Nasdaq have shown upward trends.
