A new Tesla-themed diner in Santa Monica has become the focal point of growing public protests against Elon Musk. Over two days this past weekend, activist groups including Resist the Coup and Tesla Takedown Santa Monica organized demonstrations outside the diner. Their goal was to draw attention to Musk’s political influence and his leadership of the social media platform X. Protesters cited a range of concerns, including content moderation rollbacks and alleged support for extremist rhetoric. They used signs, megaphones, and inflatable Musk caricatures to make their presence known.
The protests took place just days after Tesla reported an 11.6 percent year-over-year drop in revenue, marking its steepest decline in a decade. This financial news prompted additional scrutiny of Musk’s leadership. Demonstrators framed the diner as a public symbol of Musk’s expanding cultural and political footprint. Many participants said they view Tesla as inseparable from Musk’s actions and influence both online and offline. Organizers stated that they plan to return every week until the diner shuts down.
Throughout the weekend, passing drivers responded to protest signs that read “Honk If You Hate Elon.” Some honked and waved in support, while others reacted with hostility. Although the overall atmosphere remained peaceful, occasional tensions arose between protesters and those opposed to the demonstration. Organizers acknowledged encountering some aggression but said most public responses were supportive.
Protesters Criticize Musk’s Political Impact and Use of Platform X
Many participants pointed to Musk’s management of X as a primary concern. Protesters criticized the reinstatement of banned accounts, the loosening of content moderation, and the promotion of controversial political content. They accused Musk of enabling hate speech and spreading disinformation. His leadership of X was described as part of a broader decline in democratic standards.
Among those protesting was Steven, who brought his teenage daughter. He expressed concern over Musk’s role in shaping online discourse. According to Steven, Musk has created an environment where extremist rhetoric flourishes. He accused the tech executive of providing a platform for white supremacists and anti-Semites and of altering algorithms to amplify that kind of content. Other attendees voiced concerns about Musk’s political donations and his public comments about elections and governance.
The demonstrations followed reports that Musk had contributed significant funding to political campaigns. Protesters also cited Musk’s use of X to promote conspiracy theories and far-right viewpoints. One demonstrator referred to Musk as a fascist and pointed to his financial support for former President Donald Trump. Others emphasized that Musk’s ventures in electric vehicles and social media could not be separated from his growing political profile.
Tesla Owners and Diner Patrons Express Mixed Feelings
Not everyone at the diner came to protest. Some visitors, like Antonia and Stas, were aware of the demonstration but still chose to eat there. Antonia acknowledged the political symbolism of the diner and said she believed capitalism and politics are deeply connected. She added that she wished Musk would concentrate on innovation that benefits people instead of getting involved in political conflict.
Holly, a Tesla owner who visited the diner with her children, said the experience was emotionally complex. She saw teenagers mocking and filming protesters, which she felt highlighted the divisiveness surrounding Musk. Holly explained that she bought her Tesla for environmental reasons and not out of support for Musk himself. She stated that she does not think Musk is a positive influence and said she does not want him in a leadership role in the country.
Several protesters noted that while some Tesla owners reacted negatively, others showed quiet support. Organizers said that multiple drivers in older Tesla models expressed agreement with the protest message. Some even suggested they would consider switching to a different car brand once their leases expired. These moments revealed the internal conflict experienced by Tesla customers who appreciate the product but disapprove of Musk’s politics.
Organizers Pledge to Continue Weekly Demonstrations
The weekend demonstrations were not without challenges. Protesters reported receiving online threats afterward, including anonymous messages threatening a drive-by pepper spray attack if they returned. Despite the warnings, organizers said they remain committed to holding weekly protests. Protest leader Toby Bronson shared that the group has received encouraging support from city officials and intends to keep building momentum.
Public engagement varied throughout both days. Some drivers slowed to speak with protesters, while others shouted or recorded videos from their vehicles. Two incidents involving Cybertruck drivers were reported. One involved an obscene hand gesture, and the other featured a Nazi salute. Demonstrators caught both on video and condemned the behavior. They reaffirmed their dedication to nonviolent protest.
As the Tesla diner continues to operate, it has become more than just a themed restaurant. For many, it now represents a physical symbol of the larger political and cultural debate surrounding Elon Musk. Protesters believe that challenging the diner is one of the few available ways to express opposition to Musk’s expanding influence. Tesla has not released a public statement in response to the demonstrations.