Pro-Science Rally and Tesla Protests Intensify Across the U.S.

VANCOUVER, Wash. (KATU) — A pro-science rally held in Vancouver on March 29, 2025, aimed to counter recent federal actions that protesters claim threaten scientific progress. This event coincided with a series of nationwide protests targeting Tesla dealerships, including actions in the Pacific Northwest.

The “Rally for Science” took place at Esther Short Park, where dozens gathered, holding signs and chanting in support of science and education. Organizers voiced their concerns regarding executive orders from President Trump that they believe jeopardize scientific integrity and educational initiatives.

“I know a lot of us are really worried about the executive order on logging and what that will do to our endangered species. We have 48 endangered species here in Washington State alone that we want to protect,” said Mackenzie Pfeifer, a marine biologist and rally organizer. She added, “They’re angry at what’s being done to our scientific institutions. They’re angry at what’s being done to our federal workers.”

The protest also addressed worries about the expansion of timber production’s potential impacts on endangered species in the Pacific Northwest. Pfeifer highlighted the Bonneville Power Association as an example of a vital self-funded agency operating 70% of the regional power grid.

Simultaneously, a coordinated protest effort known as the “Tesla Takedown” targeted over 200 Tesla dealerships across the country, aiming to criticize CEO Elon Musk for recent policy changes connected to federal employee cuts and funding reallocations. This new initiative also included a demonstration at a Tesla location in South Portland.

Critics have raised concerns about Musk’s management of sensitive data and his decisions to close down entire agencies. Musk’s wealth, estimated at $340 billion, is closely tied to his Tesla stock, as the company continues its business operations amidst controversies involving former President Trump.

The nationwide protests represent a significant coordinated effort, marking the first attempt to encircle all 277 of Tesla’s showrooms and service centers in the U.S. Organizers hoped to use these demonstrations to draw attention to a recent decline in Tesla’s sales.

Demonstrations occurred in major cities such as Washington, Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Seattle, along with smaller towns in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Colorado. Smaller groups of counterprotesters also emerged at various locations, heightening tensions during the events.

The Associated Press reported that similar protests took place in Europe, including a demonstration held in London on the same day.

Despite the surge in protests, Musk has remained unperturbed, emphasizing his confidence in Tesla’s future. He stated that the Model Y would continue to be “the best-selling car on earth” this year, predicting sales would exceed 10 million cars globally by next year, up from approximately seven million currently.

In an interview with FOX News, Musk reiterated his goals to reduce the national deficit by targeting wasteful government spending. His statements come as the FBI investigates a rise in violent incidents at Tesla dealerships, particularly in Tigard and Salem.

The White House has condemned the violence surrounding these protests, with President Trump describing vandalism at showrooms as acts of terrorism. “When I looked at those showrooms burning… these are terrorists,” Trump stated.