Donald Trump has announced that he will classify acts of violence against Tesla as domestic terrorism. This statement reflects the strengthening ties between Trump and Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk. In recent months, acts of vandalism targeting Tesla dealerships and properties have increased in the U.S. and other countries. These incidents are part of a protest movement called "Tesla Takeovers," where demonstrators oppose Elon Musk's influence over the Trump administration and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which they see as a hostile takeover of federal government functions.
Although some protests have been peaceful, there have been instances of violence and property damage. Examples include graffiti on Tesla logos, the burning of electric charging stations, and Molotov cocktails thrown at some dealership lots. These actions have caused significant economic harm to Tesla. While Tesla's stock price surged after Trump's presidential election victory, it has since declined due to these protests and broader concerns about Musk's political activities, which have also negatively affected global Tesla sales.
Following a meeting with Elon Musk at the White House, Donald Trump stated that those responsible for the vandalism would be punished. He emphasized that violence against Tesla or any other American company would not be tolerated and would be classified as domestic terrorism. Under U.S. federal law, actions aimed at intimidating the public, influencing government policy, or coercing government conduct through property destruction or violence can be deemed domestic terrorism.
The organizers of the anti-Tesla protests oppose Trump's move, arguing that it is an attempt to suppress freedom of speech and the right to protest. Representatives from the "#TeslaTakedown" movement have condemned violence and emphasized that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right. They view Trump's declaration as an effort to intimidate dissenters and affirmed their commitment to continuing peaceful demonstrations.
Experts warn that Trump's broad definition of "violence" could lead to peaceful protesters being labeled as domestic terrorists. There is particular concern that international protesters residing in the U.S. on green cards or visas could face deportation. These concerns have intensified following Trump's January announcement that international students protesting Israel's military actions in Gaza would face deportation.
Elon Musk's role in these developments has also raised questions. Since January, Musk has led the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to reduce government spending. However, the department has faced criticism for mass layoffs of government workers and the closure of agencies such as USAID. Critics argue that Musk is using his government position to advance his business interests, noting that his company SpaceX has secured over $20 billion in contracts from NASA, the Department of Defense, and other federal agencies.
Trump has expressed strong support for Elon Musk, stating that he plans to purchase a Tesla vehicle for White House staff use. He described Musk as a patriot who is being treated unfairly and reiterated his commitment to protecting American businesses from vandalism and violence. These statements highlight the Trump administration's focus on defending Musk's business interests.
