Priyanka Tiwari
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Tesla showrooms, vehicle lots, charging stations, and privately owned cars have become frequent targets of violence and vandalism, with incidents reported across the United States and overseas. Molotov cocktails, bullets, and arson have all been used in attacks against properties bearing the logo of Elon Musk's electric car company. Although no injuries have been reported, law enforcement is keeping busy responding to the uptick in attacks.
These attacks have surged since Donald Trump assumed office, with Musk being empowered to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency, which has led to cuts in government spending. The surge in hostility toward Tesla has raised concerns about whether this is a short-term reaction or a developing long-term pattern.
Political Tensions and Tesla's Role as a Target
In Trump’s first term, his properties were frequently targeted by protests. As his second term began, Tesla and Musk have taken center stage as a prominent target. Randy Blazak, a sociologist who studies political violence, noted that Tesla is an easy target due to its visibility in neighborhoods and cities.
Musk critics, including political activists and some disgruntled Tesla owners, have organized peaceful protests at Tesla dealerships and factories across North America and Europe. Some have even vowed to sell their Tesla vehicles, expressing displeasure with Musk’s political affiliations.
Protests and Arrests Amid Rising Violence
Prosecutors in Colorado have charged a woman in connection with a series of Molotov cocktail attacks on Tesla dealerships. In South Carolina, federal agents arrested a man accused of setting fire to Tesla charging stations near Charleston. Investigators discovered writings critical of the government and DOGE (Dogecoin, which Musk has promoted) at the man’s home.
Several of the most prominent incidents have occurred in liberal cities such as Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, where anti-Trump and anti-Musk sentiments are more prevalent.
In Seattle, four Cybertrucks were set ablaze in a Tesla lot, while in Las Vegas, Tesla vehicles were similarly set on fire outside a service center. Authorities also reported that Molotov cocktails were thrown, and bullets fired into vehicles.
Musk Responds to Attacks and Denounces Violence
Elon Musk addressed the violence during an appearance on Senator Ted Cruz’s podcast, claiming that left-wing organizations in America, funded by wealthy individuals, are behind some of the violence targeting Tesla. Musk condemned the attacks as "insane" and "deeply wrong", stating that Tesla simply manufactures electric cars and does not deserve such acts of violence.
Left-Wing Protests and Political Violence
The progressive group Indivisible has distanced itself from the violence, saying it encourages peaceful protest and condemns any acts of vandalism. Nevertheless, incidents continue to unfold in several states, with used Cybertruck prices dropping nearly 8% since Trump’s election.
The White House has voiced its support for Musk and Tesla, and Attorney General Pam Bondi has launched an investigation into who may be funding and organizing these attacks. Bondi warned that those behind the scenes will face severe consequences for coordinating these acts of violence.
Tesla Owners Speak Out
Amid the ongoing tension, Tesla owners have expressed frustration over the stigma surrounding their vehicles. Theresa Ramsdell, president of the Tesla Owners of Washington state, said that while people are free to criticize Musk, it’s wrong to vandalize someone’s property over political disagreements. She added that many Tesla owners, including herself, continue to drive their cars, despite the criticism they may face.
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