Resistance Rises, Tesla Tumbles as Trump-Musk Regime Tightens its Grip - Resistance Daily Brief for 20 March 2025

Information, insight, and inspiration for resisting tyranny in America

Mar 20, 2025

Welcome!

As the Trump administration's second term unfolds, a wave of resistance is sweeping across America and beyond. From mass protests and legal challenges to international realignments, citizens and institutions are pushing back against authoritarian overreach. This issue of the Resistance Daily Brief highlights the growing momentum of the pro-democracy movement, showcasing inspiring acts of defiance and strategic victories that prove even the most powerful figures are not immune to public pressure. Join us as we document the frontlines of the fight for America's democratic future.

Daily Inspiration

A teacher was forced to remove an "Everyone is Welcome Here" sign, highlighting the regime’s ongoing crackdown on inclusivity in schools. This incident underscores the challenges educators face in fostering inclusive environments in the face of authoritarian federal overreach. This teacher demonstrates the courage and determination to do what’s right in the face of injustice and threats. May we all be so brave!

What happened: A teacher in Michigan was asked to remove a sign reading "Everyone is Welcome Here" from their classroom after school officials deemed it potentially political. The sign, which was intended to promote inclusivity and acceptance, became a flashpoint in broader debates over what constitutes political messaging in educational spaces. The teacher expressed disappointment, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students.
Why it matters: Efforts to restrict inclusivity in schools can undermine trust and safety for marginalized communities, fostering environments where exclusionary practices can thrive. Such actions reflect broader authoritarian tendencies to control narratives, stifle dissent, and suppress diversity of thought. Protecting spaces for open dialogue and inclusivity is essential to resisting authoritarianism and ensuring democratic values are upheld. Authoritarians attack education and educators early because knowledge is power and teachers are people whose motivation is neither money, nor power, but something more virtuous that the evil inherently recognize as a danger to their schemes. Support teachers! Support education! Learn from their dedication and courage!

Teacher asked to remove 'Everyone is Welcome Here' sign

Resistance Today

Civil Society & Publics

Resistance movements are gaining momentum across the United States, with diverse groups organizing against Trump administration policies that threaten civil liberties, federal programs, and democratic norms. From veterans protesting VA cuts to Tesla boycotts targeting Elon Musk's role in government, Americans are using collective action to challenge authoritarian overreach. These protests have already shown results, with the Pentagon restoring content about Navajo Code Talkers and other military contributions after public outcry. The growing resistance demonstrates that even powerful figures like Trump and Musk are not immune to public pressure.

From Veterans to Trans Rights, Students to Immigrant Rights, Protests Continue Across the U.S.

What happened: The first two months of Trump's second term have seen a surge in protests across the country as Americans respond to sweeping cuts and policy changes. Initially muted compared to Trump's first term, resistance has gained significant momentum with demonstrations occurring in multiple cities simultaneously. Protests have focused on issues ranging from immigration policy to federal workforce cuts, with veterans, students, LGBTQ+ advocates, and other groups organizing against specific threats to their communities. The administration has been forced to backpedal on several initiatives after public backlash, showing the effectiveness of coordinated resistance.
Why it matters: These widespread protests demonstrate that civil resistance remains a powerful tool against authoritarian governance, even when facing a determined administration. By highlighting political missteps and raising the costs for Republicans supporting controversial policies, protesters contribute to creating political constraints that can slow the administration's implementation of its most extreme agenda items. The diverse nature of these protests—spanning geographic regions, demographics, and issues—makes them harder to dismiss and indicates a broad-based rejection of authoritarian governance. This resistance shows that when people organize collectively, they can effectively challenge power and protect democratic institutions.
The Headlines

Tesla Protests Show No Sign of Stopping

What happened: Protests targeting Tesla have intensified across the United States and internationally as citizens express outrage over Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). What began as small demonstrations outside Tesla showrooms has grown into a coordinated nationwide movement called "Tesla Takedown," with protesters urging consumers to boycott the company and sell their Tesla stock and vehicles. While most protests remain peaceful, some locations have experienced vandalism and property damage, including vehicles being set on fire, prompting Trump to label such actions as "domestic terrorism" and Attorney General Pam Bondi to threaten legal action against perpetrators.
Why it matters: The Tesla protests represent a strategic shift in resistance tactics by targeting the economic interests of those wielding political power. By focusing on Musk's business empire rather than just his political role, protesters are creating tangible consequences for his actions in government, demonstrating how civil resistance can adapt to challenge powerful figures who operate across both public and private sectors. These protests have already impacted Tesla's stock price and created public relations challenges for the company, showing how economic pressure can be leveraged as a form of nonviolent resistance. The movement illustrates how citizens can use market forces and consumer choices as tools for political expression when traditional democratic channels seem insufficient. However, instances of vandalism also demonstrate the challenge of maintaining discipline in nonviolent conflict. Property damage, though it might feel good to some, is a gift to the regime, who is already using it to label protestors as terrorists. Leaders of the Tesla Takedown movement must continue to make it clear that those who would engage in such acts are not welcome in the movement.
The Headlines

A Win at DOD Shows the Regime Isn't Immune as Protests Gain Momentum

What happened: In a significant victory for protesters, the Pentagon has restored webpages highlighting the contributions of Navajo Code Talkers and other Native American veterans after widespread condemnation of their removal. The pages were initially deleted as part of a broader purge of content related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) following Trump's executive order. Pentagon officials claimed the Navajo Code Talker material was "erroneously erased" by an AI-powered review process, but only restored the content after intense public pressure, including from Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and other tribal leaders who emphasized that sovereign tribal nations are not defined by DEI classifications.
Why it matters: This reversal demonstrates that the administration is susceptible to public pressure when its actions generate sufficient outrage, particularly when they affect respected groups like military veterans. The incident reveals weaknesses in the administration's approach to governance, showing how hasty implementation of ideological policies can backfire and force retreats. By successfully compelling the Pentagon to restore this content, protesters have established a precedent that can be applied to other areas where the administration is attempting to erase histories and protections for marginalized groups. This victory provides a tactical roadmap for resistance movements: identify overreach, mobilize affected communities, generate media attention, and maintain pressure until officials reverse course.
The Headlines

Bureaucratic & Executive

Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has launched mass firings, controversial audits, and invasive data access across federal agencies, prompting legal challenges, employee reinstatements, and fears of further destabilization. These actions undermine the civil service's integrity, weaken institutional safeguards, and raise concerns about authoritarian overreach. As some civil servants return to work, others are deciding not to return. Still others are engaged in whistleblowing from within while taking extra precautions to secure their abilities to communicate among themselves and with reporters. Civil servants are crucial to resisting authoritarian consolidation and must continue to receive our support and encouragement.

Mass Firings and Partial Reinstatements

What happened: The Trump administration terminated tens of thousands of probationary federal employees across multiple agencies under questionable justifications. Following legal challenges, courts ordered the reinstatement of many workers, though concerns remain over potential future reductions in force (RIFs).
Why it matters: The mass firings disrupt government functions, erode institutional knowledge, and threaten the merit-based civil service system. Such actions weaken democratic institutions by politicizing public service and creating a climate of fear that discourages dissent or accountability. Protecting the independence of civil servants is critical to resisting authoritarian consolidation. Legal victories that require civil servants be reinstated are a positive development, but they will not be enough to stem the tide of loss and damage being caused to all federal agencies. Additional support from legislators and civil society will be needed.
The Headlines

DOGE's So-called Audits and Wholesale Theft of Private Data

What happened: DOGE has accessed sensitive government data under the guise of auditing for efficiency but has faced criticism for flagrantly ignoring established privacy and security protocols. Federal auditors have described DOGE's methods as unprofessional and akin to a "heist” as civil servants turn to encrypted communications apps to shield themselves from Musk’s prying eyes.
Why it matters: DOGE's actions jeopardize data privacy, undermine trust in government processes, and create opportunities for abuse or surveillance targeting dissenters both inside and outside of the federal civil service. Such overreach exemplifies how authoritarian regimes weaponize state resources to consolidate power and suppress opposition. The data stolen by Musk and DOGE can be turned on any citizen that speaks up. Those involved in resistance activities must become more mindful of their digital privacy practices. There are many resources for how to do this. One of the oldest and most well respected is the Surveillance Self-Defense manual from the Electronic Frontier Foundation. We highly recommend everyone take a look and begin implementing the recommended steps there.
The Headlines

Civil Servant Sentiments & Morale

What happened: Federal employees report widespread stress, guilt, and uncertainty due to workplace upheavals caused by DOGE's actions. Many are considering leaving their roles or struggling with ethical dilemmas about staying.
Why it matters: Low morale among federal workers risks a brain drain that could cripple government effectiveness. Authoritarian regimes benefit from such instability as it weakens institutional resistance to overreach. Strengthening worker protections and fostering solidarity among employees are crucial steps in defending democratic governance. More must be done by Democrats in Congress, the courts, and civil society to bolster the morale of remaining civil servants to stay and fight back. Successful capture of the federal bureaucracy by regime loyalists will make future resistance that much harder.
The Headlines

Legal & Judicial

Federal judges dealt significant blows to the Trump administration's policy agenda, blocking key initiatives and expressing skepticism toward legal justifications. Meanwhile, some administration officials signaled willingness to defy court orders, raising concerns about a potential constitutional crisis. These developments highlight ongoing tensions between executive power and judicial oversight, as well as the fragility of democratic norms and institutions.

Regime Losses in Court

What happened: Federal judges blocked several Trump administration policies, including attempts to reclaim climate grants, bar transgender people from military service, and deport immigrants without due process. Judges expressed skepticism toward the administration's legal arguments and evidence for these actions.
Why it matters: These rulings demonstrate the judiciary's crucial role in checking executive power and upholding constitutional rights. The repeated losses highlight potential legal overreach by the administration and may slow the implementation of controversial policies.
The Headlines

Growing Defiance of Court Orders

What happened: Trump administration officials, including the "border czar" Tom Homan, openly stated their intention to continue deportations despite court orders. The administration also allegedly defied court orders by deporting individuals after judges had halted such actions.
Why it matters: This apparent willingness to defy court orders represents a serious threat to the rule of law and separation of powers. It raises concerns about a potential constitutional crisis and the erosion of democratic norms.
The Headlines

New Lawsuits

What happened: New legal challenges were filed against Trump administration policies, including a lawsuit by a teachers union over halting student loan repayment plans and a challenge to the use of the Alien Enemies Act for deportations.
Why it matters: These lawsuits represent ongoing resistance to controversial policies and may lead to further judicial scrutiny of the administration's actions. They also highlight the role of civil society organizations in challenging executive overreach through the legal system.
The Headlines

Congress & Lawmakers

Continued Democratic infighting highlights the challenges of opposing authoritarianism and maintaining political unity. Democrats face escalating internal divisions over Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s leadership following his support for a GOP spending bill, while one Republican, Senator Lisa Murkowski, criticized Trump and Elon Musk’s aggressive cuts to federal agencies. These dynamics underscore the increasingly dire need for unity and a cohesive strategy to counter rapidly advancing authoritarian consolidation.

Democrats Fighting Each Other

What happened: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is under fire from fellow Democrats for supporting a Republican spending bill, with lawmakers like Glenn Ivey and Delia Ramirez publicly calling for his resignation. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized Schumer’s strategy, arguing that he surrendered leverage without securing concessions. Progressive groups and younger voters have expressed frustration, with figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gaining prominence as potential new leaders in the Democratic Party. Meanwhile, Senator Michael Bennet hinted at the need for leadership changes, reflecting broader dissatisfaction within the party.
Why it matters: Democratic infighting weakens the party’s ability to effectively counter authoritarian policies under Trump’s administration. The criticism of Schumer highlights the importance of unity to resist regime efforts to dismantle public services and suppress dissent. A lack of cohesion risks alienating key voter demographics, undermining grassroots mobilization and pro-democracy efforts critical to resisting authoritarianism. At the same time, a lack of urgency and a clear strategy for resisting Trump is the main cause of division. Whatever congressional Democrats decide to do, they must do it quickly, agreeing on leadership, strategy, tactics and then unifying behind those decisions. Time is running out to stop Trump’s drive towards dictatorship.
The Headlines

Lawmakers Resisting Trump

What happened: Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski criticized Trump’s administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency for mistreating federal workers and vowed not to be intimidated by Musk-backed primary challengers. Democratic Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego rallied against GOP plans to slash Medicaid funding, emphasizing grassroots mobilization as a key strategy to protect vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, House Democrats pleaded with Trump to reconsider a proposed travel ban targeting 43 countries, warning of its economic and moral consequences.
Why it matters: Resistance from lawmakers like Murkowski provides a glimmer of hope, albeit slight, that cracks might be emerging in the regime’s base of congressional GOP support. Democrats need to solve their internal disputes and take advantage of such opportunities. Efforts by Kelly, Gallego, and others highlight the importance of grassroots pressure in influencing policy decisions and protecting social safety nets. These actions align with strategies to build multiracial coalitions and contest power at all levels of government.
The Headlines

State & Local Governments

Democratic governors are emerging as a critical line of defense against Trump and Musk's aggressive dismantling of federal institutions, with leaders like Tim Walz and JB Pritzker urging resistance through legal challenges, public protests, and key elections. Their actions highlight the crucial role of state-level leadership in preserving democratic norms and protecting essential services in the face of unprecedented executive overreach.

What happened: Governors Tim Walz of Minnesota and JB Pritzker of Illinois have taken strong stances against the Trump-Musk regime's rapid consolidation of power and gutting of federal agencies. Walz encouraged Democratic governors to challenge unconstitutional mandates from Trump, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court election as a starting point for resistance. Pritzker revealed Trump's past attempts to exchange COVID-19 equipment for praise, illustrating the administration's transactional approach to governance. Both governors are using their platforms to rally Democrats and highlight the potential consequences of unchecked executive power, particularly regarding programs like Medicaid.
Why it matters: State governors' resistance to federal overreach is crucial for maintaining the balance of power in the American federal system. By refusing to comply with unconstitutional orders and challenging them through legal means, governors can act as a bulwark against authoritarianism and protect their constituents from harmful policy changes. Their actions serve to mobilize grassroots opposition, providing a focal point for democratic resistance and potentially inspiring other leaders to take similar stands. Furthermore, by emphasizing the concrete impacts of federal cuts on programs like Medicaid, governors can make abstract political battles tangible to citizens potentially swaying public opinion and mobilizing more widespread resistance. This state-level pushback is essential for preserving democratic norms, protecting vulnerable populations, and maintaining the integrity of America's federal system in the face of unprecedented challenges to constitutional governance.
The Headlines

International Resistance

Canada and Europe are strategically distancing themselves from the United States under Trump's leadership, strengthening their own defense capabilities and economic ties. These actions represent a significant shift in global alliances, undermining U.S. hegemony and showcasing collective international resistance to the United States’ rapid descent into authoritarianism. Though damaging to the United States, such international isolation helps to put pressure on domestic pillars of power that support the Trump regime.

Canada Turns Toward Europe & Pushes Back Against Trump & Musk

What happened: Canada is pivoting toward Europe amidst escalating tensions with the U.S., including Trump's trade war and annexation rhetoric. Prime Minister Mark Carney has strengthened ties with European allies, signing a defense radar deal with Australia and exploring participation in EU military projects. Canadian provinces have removed American alcohol from liquor stores, while citizens are canceling U.S. vacations and boycotting American products. Toronto has excluded Tesla from electric vehicle incentives, citing the ongoing trade dispute.
Why it matters: Canada's actions demonstrate a significant shift in its foreign policy and economic strategy, moving away from its traditional reliance on the U.S. By fostering closer ties with Europe and other allies, Canada is creating alternative power structures that reduce its vulnerability to U.S. pressure. This realignment strengthens democratic resilience by building economic and defense autonomy, promoting scientific freedom, and countering the influence of leaders who challenge international norms. The boycotts and policy changes also send a strong message about the consequences of aggressive rhetoric and trade policies, potentially influencing future U.S. actions by putting economic pressure on U.S. companies, including its defense industrial base.
The Headlines

Europe Plans to Strengthen Its Defense & Warns Citizens of Travel to the U.S.

What happened: Europe is pursuing defense independence, with Germany approving massive military investments and EU countries planning to attract U.S.-based researchers amid Trump's funding cuts. The EU is launching initiatives to boost its defense industry, including a potential €150 billion loan program for shared military development. European nations are also warning citizens about stricter U.S. border policies and considering alternatives to American-made weaponry. Canada is in talks to join EU military industry efforts, potentially participating in the production of European fighter jets and other equipment.
Why it matters: Europe's push for defense autonomy represents a fundamental shift in the transatlantic relationship and global security dynamics. By developing its own military-industrial complex and reducing reliance on U.S. technology, Europe is positioning itself as a more independent global player. This move strengthens Europe's bargaining power in international affairs and provides a hedge against unpredictable U.S. policies. The inclusion of Canada in these efforts further expands the scope of this realignment, creating a broader coalition of democratic nations working together to ensure their security and economic interests. These actions collectively challenge the United States, leaving it without true allies. The United States could soon have an adversary on its northern border that is aligned with its former allies in Europe, with its only “friend” a Russian dictator who has no concern for America’s best interests.
The Headlines

Resistance Tomorrow

Vulnerabilities & Exposures

Tesla recalls and boycotts intensify as the company becomes increasingly associated with Trump. Republican lawmakers face angry constituents at town halls over federal cuts and Trump's policies. Conservative media figures and audiences express growing frustration with Trump's tariffs and economic policies. Veterans and military families mobilize against Trump administration actions through protests and ad campaigns. These developments signal rising discontent across multiple segments of society, including traditional Republican strongholds. The backlash threatens Trump's support base and could impact the upcoming election, while also undermining key pillars of his agenda. Encouraging and then welcoming defections from MAGA supporters, veterans, regime media, and party elites will be crucial to successful resistance.

#TeslaTakedown Showing Signs of Success

What happened: Tesla issued a recall for all 46,000 Cybertrucks due to a potentially dangerous issue with exterior panels detaching while driving. The company's stock price has plummeted by over 30% in the past month as boycotts intensify and sales decline sharply in Europe and Canada. Protesters are planning large-scale demonstrations at Tesla showrooms worldwide on March 29th. Tesla investors are beginning to turn against CEO Elon Musk.
Why it matters: The widespread boycotts and declining sales of Tesla vehicles demonstrate the power of nonviolent economic pressure to impact even major corporations closely aligned with authoritarian regimes. By tying Tesla's brand to Trump's policies, activists have successfully turned the company into a proxy target for opposing the administration, potentially forcing Tesla to reconsider its political associations to protect its business interests.
The Headlines

GOP Lawmakers Face Unhappy Constituents

What happened: Republican lawmakers holding town halls across the country faced intense criticism and angry questions from constituents over federal job cuts, potential impacts to Social Security and veterans' services, and Trump's broader agenda. Many Republicans have been avoiding in-person events altogether due to fears of hostile crowds and negative publicity.
Why it matters: The backlash at town halls, even in traditionally conservative areas, reveals growing discontent with Trump administration policies among Republican voters. This grassroots opposition within the GOP base could weaken support for Trump's agenda in Congress and impact the upcoming election, potentially shifting the balance of power. The pressure also demonstrates the importance of local, face-to-face political engagement in resisting authoritarian policies.
The Headlines

Cracks Emerge in Regime Media Support as Audiences Criticize Trump

What happened: Conservative media figures, including Fox News hosts, are facing increasing pushback from their audiences over Trump's economic policies, particularly tariffs. Listeners calling into right-wing radio shows have expressed frustration with federal job cuts, potential impacts to Social Security, and Trump's broader agenda.
Why it matters: The growing criticism of Trump's policies from conservative media audiences signals potential fractures in his base of support. As regime-friendly media outlets struggle to maintain credibility while defending increasingly unpopular policies, it may create openings for alternative sources of information to reach conservative voters. This erosion of Trump's media firewall could make it more difficult for the administration to control narratives and maintain popular support. Pro-democracy forces must continue to encourage defections from the Trump base and position themselves as the ones who truly have the best interests of all Americans at heart.
The Headlines

Veterans Step Up & Push Back

What happened: VoteVets launched a six-figure ad campaign across multiple media platforms exposing Republican veterans in Congress who have remained silent on Trump administration cuts affecting veterans. The ads call on Congress to act against what they term "Elon's war on veterans." Separately, veterans have been vocal at town halls and in letters to the editor criticizing Trump's policies and treatment of allies.
Why it matters: The mobilization of veterans and military families against Trump administration policies challenges a key pillar of the president's support base. By highlighting how cuts are directly impacting veterans and active duty personnel, these efforts could sway public opinion and put pressure on lawmakers to oppose Trump's agenda. The involvement of respected military voices also lends credibility to resistance efforts and may help bridge partisan divides. Resistance from veterans and military families could also put pressure on currently service members of the security services, military and law enforcement, to defect when the regime calls on them to carry out violent repression of those in the resistance.
The Headlines

We close with a video showing just one example of a committed Trump supporter in rural America who has signalled his growing discontent with the regime by lowering to half staff and turning upside down the giant Trump flag in front of his house. There are certainly many more like him out there and there will be more each day as the regime’s actions cause significant harm to Trump’s own supporters. The resistance must be ready to communicate to those citizens strategically and bring them into a broad coalition whose sole focus is stopping Trump and Musk’s authoritarian power play.

https://youtube.com/shorts/Ru33JuH_t7c?si=BkfafgELMXIkHWHL

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