Full Breakdown
Protest Group Targets Larry Ellison's Yacht with Political Message
3/25/2026, 8:06:05 AM
Activists Rename Yacht in Protest
On March 24, 2023, the protest group Led By Donkeys made headlines by renaming billionaire Larry Ellison’s super yacht to “The Trump Propagandist.” The group, known for its satirical political activism, released footage showing activists approaching Ellison’s $160 million yacht in the French Riviera via speedboat. The activists claimed, “We tracked down the superyacht owned by the world’s sixth-richest man. Larry Ellison won’t like what we did to it.”
Background on Larry Ellison
Larry Ellison, co-founder of the software company Oracle, is recognized not only for his wealth but also for his political affiliations. He has been a notable supporter of both Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In 2017, Ellison made headlines for contributing $16.6 million to the Israeli Defense Forces, marking one of the largest single donations to the organization at that time.
Motivations Behind the Protest
The protest by Led By Donkeys appears to be a direct response to Ellison's political connections and financial support for controversial figures and causes. By renaming the yacht, the activists aimed to draw attention to Ellison's influence and the implications of his political donations, particularly in relation to U.S. foreign policy and support for Israel.
Official Statements & Responses
Led By Donkeys has not only highlighted Ellison's financial contributions but has also sought to provoke a broader discussion about the intersection of wealth and political influence. The group’s actions are part of a larger trend of using public demonstrations to challenge the actions of wealthy individuals in politics.
Criticism & Opposition
While the protest has garnered attention, it has also faced criticism. Some observers argue that targeting individuals like Ellison oversimplifies complex political issues and may not effectively contribute to meaningful dialogue. Critics suggest that such actions could alienate potential allies who might share similar concerns about political influence but disagree with the methods employed by activist groups.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We tracked down the superyacht owned by the world’s sixth-richest man. Larry Ellison won’t like what we did to it,” — Led By Donkeys
What's Next
The protest by Led By Donkeys raises questions about future activism targeting wealthy individuals involved in politics. As public awareness of the influence of money in political systems grows, similar actions may become more common, prompting discussions about accountability and the role of wealth in shaping policy.
