Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) is preparing for widespread demonstrations as the Tesla Takedown Day unfolds globally on March 29. The coordinated protest is focused on CEO Elon Musk's political alignment, particularly his role in the Trump administration as head of the Department of Government Efficiency.
Organizers expect activity at around 500 Tesla locations, including all 277 U.S. showrooms and numerous Supercharger stations worldwide. While prior demonstrations have been peaceful, isolated incidents of vandalism prompted federal involvement, with the FBI creating a task force to monitor threats of violence.
Protest leaders claim they've faced online harassment and threats from political opponents. Tesla employees have also reported incidents of being targeted, both online and in person.
The protest comes just days ahead of Tesla's first-quarter deliveries report, which is widely expected to reflect a year-over-year and sequential decline. The company is also navigating the effects of new tariffs that are driving up manufacturing costs.
Despite Tesla's U.S.-based production, Wedbush Securities warns that tariff impacts on global supply chains are forcing companies to raise prices. Analyst Dan Ives described the proposed 25% auto tariff as unsustainable and said it could contribute to a broader increase in car prices.
Tesla shares were down almost 3% on Friday and have fallen 35% year to date.
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