If you’ve driven down Route 70 in South Jersey lately, you might have seen more than just the usual suburban traffic and strip mall neon. For several months, the sidewalk in front of the local showroom has looked more like a political battleground than a car dealership. The cherry hill tesla protest hasn't just been a one-time fluke; it has turned into a biweekly fixture that basically stops traffic and leaves every passerby wondering what on earth is actually going on with Elon Musk’s brand in our backyard.
Honestly, it's a weird scene. On one side, you have people picking up $100,000 Plaid Model S sedans, and on the other, you’ve got crowds of up to 400 people chanting slogans that sound more like they belong at a DC rally than a New Jersey suburb.
Why the Cherry Hill Tesla Protest Is Still Happening
Most people think this is just a standard labor dispute. It’s not. While Tesla has had its share of union drama in places like Sweden and Germany, the energy in Cherry Hill is tied to something much bigger and, frankly, more personal for a lot of locals.
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The movement, largely organized by groups like Cooper River Indivisible, is part of a national campaign known as the "Tesla Takedown." It’s a response to Musk’s massive role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and his deep ties to the current administration's federal layoffs. People aren't just mad about cars; they're mad about how the money from those cars is being used to fund what they call a "billionaire broligarchy."
The Scene on Route 70
If you were there on March 8, 2025—which was probably the peak of the unrest—the line of protesters stretched blocks past the dealership. It wasn't just retirees with signs. You had former federal employees who lost their jobs in the 2025 mass layoffs, local tech workers, and even some current Tesla owners who looked incredibly conflicted.
Adam Sheridan, a leader with Cooper River Indivisible, basically summed it up by saying the goal is to make the Tesla brand "toxic" to hit Musk's bottom line. It seems to be working to some degree, or at least it’s making people think twice. Tesla’s stock has been a roller coaster, and local sales have felt the chill.
Is It Safe to Drive a Tesla in South Jersey?
This is the question that’s actually kept people up at night. Reports of vandalism have been swirling around the Delaware Valley for months. We've heard stories of everything from keyed doors to more aggressive stuff.
- Vandalism Fears: Owners like Nick Melillo, who recently bought a Tesla, told local news he’s terrified of someone touching his car just because of the badge on the hood.
- The "Ice Water" Incident: During one Cherry Hill rally, a driver in a car with Trump stickers reportedly threw ice water at a protester’s daughter.
- Nazi Salutes: Protesters have reported drivers passing by and giving Nazi salutes, which has only added fuel to the fire.
It's a mess. The local police have been a constant presence to keep things from getting physical, but the tension is thick enough to cut with a knife. You’ve got this bizarre situation where the car you drive has become a definitive statement on your politics, whether you like it or not.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Boycott
There is a huge misconception that this is just "liberal whining." If you actually talk to the people on the sidewalk, a lot of them are former Musk fans. They’re "tech lovers" who used to respect the innovation but feel like the CEO has gone off the rails.
Jennifer Kitchen, a physician from Washington Crossing, is a perfect example. She dumped her lease early. For her, it wasn't about the battery range or the Autopilot—it was about not wanting her monthly payment to support a guy who she felt was attacking public health officials.
The Financial Impact
Is the cherry hill tesla protest actually hurting the company?
- Tesla’s stock price saw a massive dip in early 2025 as the "Tesla Takedown" went global.
- A poll showed roughly 31% of Tesla drivers were considering switching brands specifically because of Musk's political activities.
- In Cherry Hill specifically, the "supportive honking" from passing traffic on Route 70 suggests the protesters have a lot of local sympathy.
Practical Steps for Local Residents and Owners
If you live in the area or own one of these cars, the situation isn't likely to disappear tomorrow. The "Musk Must Fall" rallies are already being planned for upcoming milestones.
For Current Owners: If you’re worried about your car being a target, some locals have started putting "I bought this before he went crazy" stickers on their bumpers. It sounds silly, but it’s a real thing people are doing to avoid the "vandalism tax." Also, lean on your Sentry Mode. It’s there for a reason.
For Potential Buyers: If you're looking to test drive at the Cherry Hill location, check the "Action Network" or local Reddit threads first. Protests usually happen on Saturdays. If you want a quiet experience without walking through a picket line, go on a Tuesday morning.
For Protesters: Keep it on the sidewalk. The Cherry Hill Police Department has been pretty strict about keeping the entrance to the service center clear. They haven't made many arrests yet, mostly because the organizers are very focused on "peaceful assembly" to avoid being labeled as domestic terrorists—a term the administration has already floated for these boycotts.
The reality is that Cherry Hill has become a microcosm of the national divide. It’s no longer just about electric vehicles; it’s about who gets to control the future of the American economy. Whether you're there for the cars or the signs, Route 70 is going to be a loud place for the foreseeable future.
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To stay safe and informed, local owners should ensure their vehicle's software is updated to the latest version of Sentry Mode to capture any potential incidents. If you're planning to join a demonstration, always coordinate with established groups like Cooper River Indivisible to ensure you're following local ordinances regarding public gathering and noise.