SEATTLE — One of the prominent Seattle-based organizations behind dozens of rallies and protests against Tesla, took a victory lap on Tuesday after the company reported a 71% drop in year-over-over profits.

The group, Troublemakers, gathered in Capitol Hill to celebrate the earnings report.

“We weren’t surprised at all but we are pleased. It shows what we’re doing matters and that people are really upset with [Musk], most of all. I honestly think he’s doing more of the work to cause that drop than we are,” said co-founder Emily Johnston. “Everybody is completely outraged and anxious about the direction the country is heading.”

Tesla said profits fell from $1.39 billion in the first quarter of 2024 to $409 million in the first quarter of 2025.

“The fact the whole quarter was that bad really says something about where people are at,” Johnston said.

After the drop in profits were reported, Musk said he would be spending less time with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in favor of running Tesla.

“I’m sure he’s getting pushback from the board. If not, they’re not doing their job but it doesn’t really matter… the damage has been so profound to the government infrastructure and to people’s lives,” Johnston said.

She told KING 5 the group will continue to protest and could begin targeting other Musk-affiliated entities, like Starlink.

The demonstrations have targeted Tesla dealerships and vehicles in opposition to Musk’s role within the government.

In late March, protesters gathered for events in Seattle’s Sodo, South Lake Union and University Village neighborhoods, in addition to protests in Bellevue, Fife and Lynnwood. 

Similar events were held throughout the United States and in some cities in Europe.