In a growing tide of violence against Tesla vehicles across the United States, former President Donald Trump has characterized recent arson attacks as acts of "domestic political terrorism." His comments came during a segment of The Ingraham Angle on March 18, 2025, where he stated, "I think so," when asked if he viewed the attacks as domestic terrorism. He speculated that the individuals behind these arsons could have ties to politically motivated groups on the left and suggested that they are being financially supported by influential figures within those circles.
Trump specifically referenced a recent incident where several Tesla vehicles were torched outside a service center in Las Vegas, an act he claims was symptomatic of a broader trend targeting the electric vehicle manufacturer. "The good thing is they have a lot of cameras in those places, and they've caught some already having to do with that," Trump noted, implying that investigations could lead to identifying those responsible.
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and a prominent supporter of Trump, has found himself at the center of this escalating conflict. The former president went on to praise Musk as a “patriot” who has aligned himself with conservative values during the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. Trump remarked, “I hardly knew Elon until the election,” suggesting their relationship deepened as they navigated the polarized political landscape.
As tensions rise, incidents of vandalism and arson against Tesla properties have surged. Reports indicate that in addition to the Las Vegas attack, two Tesla Cybertrucks went up in flames at a dealership in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 17. Just days prior, bullets rained down on a Tesla showroom in Tigard, Oregon, where more than a dozen shots were fired, marking a troubling trend in hostility against the car manufacturer.
"Tesla is an easy target,” said Randy Blazak, a sociologist specializing in political violence. “They’re rolling down our streets. They have dealerships in our neighborhoods.” Blazak's analysis underscores the public visibility of Tesla trucks and showrooms as part of the reason they attract protest.
In another alarming incident, a man attempting to set fire to a Tesla charging station in protest against both Trump and Musk tragically ended up igniting himself. This bizarre episode is part of a series of violent reactions against the electric car company, including a vandalized dealership in Colorado, where the words “Nazi cars” were spray-painted on the building.
Experts in domestic extremism note that it remains to be seen if these incidents signify a lasting trend of violence. Historically, during Trump's presidency, his properties became hubs of protest. Currently, Tesla appears to occupy that role, with various leftist organizations organizing demonstrations against Musk's perceived alignment with conservative ideals.
In South Carolina, federal agents arrested an individual for allegedly setting fire to Tesla charging stations, with evidence suggesting a coordinated effort to undermine Musk's enterprises. In the Pacific Northwest, where anti-Trump sentiment is particularly strong, several Tesla vehicles have been vandalized, leading to a significant law enforcement response.
On March 11, three Teslas were vandalized in Dedham, Massachusetts, further illustrating the spectrum of attacks on Tesla that range from minor graffiti to serious arson incidents. Such violence has drawn attention from Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi, who asserts that the repeated vandalism represents domestic terrorism. On March 18, she announced investigations into the funding and coordination behind these violent actions, stating, “If you’re going to touch a Tesla, you better watch out because we’re coming after you.”
Musk himself has commented on the disturbing trend, echoing accusations of organization behind the attacks and denouncing the wave of violence as “insane and deeply wrong.” With the recent escalation in hostilities, Tesla's reputation is experiencing significant backlash, and the declining stock prices and reputation have been attributed partly to this unrest.
Trump's administration has moved to defend Musk, casting the attacks as politically motivated. The White House signaled a willingness to use federal resources to combat these acts, with a commitment to finding those responsible and holding them accountable. Legal ramifications from the attacks could lead to federal charges for individuals involved in the violence associated with Tesla.
As this narrative unfolds, many Tesla owners express mixed feelings about their vehicles in light of the current political landscape. Some have taken to creating humorous bumper stickers in reaction to the stigma their cars now carry amidst violence and unrest.
Despite the turmoil, advocates for Tesla maintain that the attacks on the company symbolize a wider political struggle, with Musk serving as a lightning rod for polarized sentiments. "I bought this before we knew Elon was crazy," read one bumper sticker, reflecting a sentiment among some Tesla drivers who feel caught in the crossfire of a broader ideological battle. As Tesla continues to navigate its turbulent waters, the ongoing response from both supporters and critics alike will shape its trajectory in the tumultuous political environment.
