In Video: Turmoil at Tesla continues as Musk tries to reassure employees
Tesla on the Brink: CEO Elon Musk’s Last-Ditch Effort to Reassure Employees Amid Protests and Tumult
Turmoil Engulfs Tesla as Stock Tumbles
In a last-ditch effort to stem the tide of criticism and protests, Tesla CEO Elon Musk held an all-hands meeting with employees on Thursday, attempting to reassure them that the company is strong and will survive the current tumultuous period. The meeting comes as the company’s stock continues to plummet, with some investors calling for the CEO’s resignation amidst a growing protest movement against the company.
The protests, which have been dubbed the "Tesla Takedown," appear to be targeting not just the company, but also CEO Elon Musk’s association with the Trump administration. Many Tesla owners, including one former owner who wishes to remain anonymous, are voicing their disapproval, citing embarrassment and a desire to distance themselves from the brand.
"I feel embarrassed even owning a Tesla," said the former owner. "I really love the cars, but I just can’t be associated with that brand anymore."
However, not everyone agrees with the protesters’ methods. Some argue that the reaction is excessive, and that the focus should be on addressing the issues rather than destroying property.
"It’s my only way, right? It’s the only thing I have," said one protestor. "You just want to distance yourself."
Reports of Vandalism and Arson
As tensions escalate, reports have surfaced of multiple incidents of vandalism and arson targeting Teslas across the country, with some owners abandoning their vehicles altogether. In Syracuse, video footage showed a man defacing a Tesla, writing "This car supports Nazis."
Government Response
In response to the protests, President Trump has vowed to take a tough stance, warning that there will be "no leniency and no pardons" for those behind the attacks. He likened the actions to terrorism, saying, "These are terrorists. You didn’t have that on January 6th."
However, an NBC News investigation has uncovered no evidence of coordinated attacks, despite claims from some that the incidents are linked. Domestic extremism experts and law enforcement officials agree that while there are organized protest efforts, they have disavowed vandalism and violence.
Despite the turmoil, Tesla CEO Elon Musk remains committed to his vision for the company, urging employees to stay focused and united. But with the protest movement showing no signs of slowing, the future of Tesla remains uncertain. One thing is clear, however: the company must adapt to the changing landscape and address the concerns of its increasingly dissatisfied customers.
