Priyanka Tiwari
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U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to individuals vandalizing Tesla vehicles and properties, stating that those caught may face up to 20 years in prison. In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared:
“People that get caught sabotaging Teslas will stand a very good chance of going to jail for up to twenty years, and that includes the funders. WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!!”
This statement follows Trump's earlier remarks branding Tesla vandalism as “domestic terror” and warning that perpetrators are “going to go through hell.”
Crackdown on Tesla Attacks Amid Political Tensions
The Trump administration is responding to a wave of Tesla vandalism incidents across the U.S., linked to protests against CEO Elon Musk, who currently heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump’s leadership.
In a show of support for Musk, Trump purchased a Tesla last week and temporarily transformed the White House driveway into a Tesla showroom, choosing from various displayed models.
Violence and Vandalism Increasing Against Tesla
Tesla facilities, including showrooms, EV lots, charging stations, and privately-owned vehicles, have been targeted in acts of vandalism both in the U.S. and abroad, including in Canada.
While some incidents involve peaceful demonstrations by Musk critics, more severe actions have been reported, including property damage and vehicle fires. A video shared by Musk showing burning Teslas in Las Vegas has gone viral.
“Tesla just makes electric cars and has done nothing to deserve these evil attacks,” Musk wrote on X. He also alleged the violence is “organized and paid for” by “left-wing organizations funded by billionaires.”
Legal and Government Response Escalates
Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed Trump’s concerns, labeling Tesla vandalism as “domestic terrorism”. She warned of “severe consequences” for not just the attackers, but also their financial backers.
In a rare move, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick publicly endorsed Tesla stock, encouraging Americans to invest amid recent market volatility affecting the EV company.
Tesla Faces Political, Social, and Market Challenges
Tesla has become a flashpoint in political and cultural debates due to Elon Musk’s dual role as a corporate executive and government official. Some critics, including a U.S. senator, have gone as far as to announce plans to sell their Teslas in protest.
Despite these challenges, the Trump administration appears committed to defending both Musk and Tesla, framing the attacks as politically motivated and warning of a federal crackdown.
