BEND, Ore. – A group of local protesters gathered outside the Tesla dealership in Bend on Tuesday, voicing their displeasure with the company’s owner, Elon Musk. The protest, which took place along the highway, attracted attention from passing drivers as demonstrators held signs that addressed a range of issues, including criticism of Musk, the DOGE cryptocurrency, and pro-Ukrainian sentiments.

The protest was organized by a group calling themselves the “Vocal Seniority.” While protests against DOGE have occurred in the region before, this particular demonstration aimed to directly target the Tesla dealership, sending a clear message to the billionaire entrepreneur and his business practices.

Joe Craig, a Bend resident and one of the protesters, explained the motivation behind the demonstration. “We’re out here because we’re defending democracy. Democracy is what built this country, and it’s never been at risk the way it is right now.”

The Vocal Seniority group has stated that this protest is just the beginning, with plans to make it a weekly occurrence. The organizers have dubbed the weekly event “Take Down Tesla Tuesday,” and they intend to return to the Tesla dealership every Tuesday at 5 p.m. to continue raising awareness of their concerns.

While the protest was focused on Musk and his influence, it also highlighted broader social and political issues, including the impact of cryptocurrency on the economy and the state of global politics, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. As the protest continues, it remains to be seen whether the event will grow in size and influence over time.