An estimated 1,000 protesters lined the streets near Tesla's Easton dealership Saturday, holding signs, chanting and singing, and objecting to Tesla CEO Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration.
Across a driveway into the dealership, only about two dozen people gathered to counter-protest.
Protesters have been gathering outside Tesla's Easton dealership every Saturday since Feb. 8, though this was the first time a counter-protest materialized.
Social media chatter said Ohio Proud Boys were going to be present. If any were members of the controversial hate group were there, it wasn't apparent.
But others came from outside the Columbus area to counter-protest.
Eric Johnson, 62, traveled from Madison County to support Musk. Johnson held an American flag embossed with an eagle and "DOGE," for the Department of Government Efficiency, which Musk oversees.
Johnson said it was sad to see the Tesla brand get such a bad name. "The propaganda is amazing," Johnson said. "Elon Musk is a hero."
On the other side of the Tesla driveway, Michelle Phillips stood wearing a "Veterans Fighting Fascism" T-shirt. Phillips, 55, came by herself from Bellefontaine, and is a Navy veteran and retired nurse.
She came to protest against Musk. "The power of the people. Not take this sitting down," Phillips said.
Phillips is worried about the Trump administration's cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs. "We need them, " Phillips said.
Keith Karchella, 40, of Mansfield, said he came because he is concerned about Musk's role in the Trump administration.
"Elon Musk is unfairly appointed in positions and has really taken advantage for his own personal gain," Karchella said.
Karchella had many allies.
One anti-Musk protester held a sign that crossed out the word "DOGE." Other signs said "Fire Elon, and "Felon."
The Columbus Police dialogue team worked with both groups to make sure there weren't any confrontations. Nine dialogue team officers in light-blue vests patrolled the sidewalks, escorting anti-Musk protesters through the counter-protesters and keeping an eye on things.
"We want everyone to be in their space, to express their rights," Columbus Division of Police Lt. Dianne Yandrich said.
Rick Neal, one of the organizers of the demonstration to protest against Tesla and Musk, said not engaging with counter-protesters is the policy.
"I mean honestly, why?" Neal said.
Columbus police spokesman Sgt. James Fuqua said there were an estimated 1,000 people present at the Saturday protest.
Many motorists driving by honked in support of those protesting against Musk. One counter-protester yelled at a passenger in a car stopped in traffic, shouting "communist," and telling them to leave the country.
Tesla facilities worldwide have been the target of protests. Hundreds were planned for Saturday as part of the "Tesla Takedown" campaign.
"It's still supposed to be our government," Neal said.
