Photo: PATRICK T. FALLON / AFP / Getty Images
The newly opened Tesla Diner in Hollywood has become a focal point for protests against Tesla CEO Elon Musk. On Sunday, dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the diner for the second consecutive night, expressing their discontent with Musk's involvement in reducing U.S. government spending through the Department of Government Efficiency. The protests were organized by the group Resist the Coup, which is critical of Musk's association with the Trump Administration.
The diner features a retro-futuristic design with electric vehicle-charging stations and serves food in Cybertruck-themed packaging. Despite its popularity among some customers, who reportedly waited up to 11 hours for the grand opening, the establishment has faced backlash from local residents and activists. Joel Lava, an organizer of the "Tesla Takedown" demonstrations, believes that the protests will persist throughout the summer, arguing that Musk's influence is harmful.
Lava, who estimates that around 75 people joined the protest on Saturday, told CNN that the group's main message is that "Tesla funds fascism." He criticized Musk for allegedly destroying government agencies and causing global harm. Despite the protests, Tesla has not issued a response.
The protests coincide with a challenging period for Tesla, as the company reported a decline in auto revenue and overall sales in its recent earnings report. Shares of Tesla have also experienced a significant drop, falling more than 4% last week.