Trump says he will label violence against Tesla as domestic terrorism

Trump declares anti-Tesla violence as domestic terrorism amidst Musk's growing influence.

: President Donald Trump intends to categorize violence against Tesla as domestic terrorism, highlighting Elon Musk's increasingly significant political influence. Protests called #TeslaTakedown, fueled by fears of government takeover, have led to property damage at Tesla dealerships worldwide. Trump supports Musk, suggesting attacks on Tesla target patriotic American interests while protesters emphasize their nonviolent intentions. Tensions escalate as definitions of violence are scrutinized, with Trump suggesting deportations related to Tesla protests.

President Donald Trump has announced plans to classify violence against Tesla properties as an act of 'domestic terrorism,' a measure reflecting his administration's growing alliance with Elon Musk. This intention was made public via a White House pool reporters transcript, framing the move within the broader context of protests labeled as 'Tesla Takeovers' that have emerged globally. These protests are a response to what many critics perceive as Elon Musk's undue influence over federal governance through his role in the 'Department of Government Efficiency' (DOGE), a committee formed by Trump to cut government spending. The protests have escalated over time to include acts of vandalism and arson targeting Tesla dealerships.

Public demonstrations against Tesla, often marked by graffiti, setting fire to charging stations, and other acts of destruction, have coincided with a decline in the company's stock value. Following an initial surge post-Trump's electoral victory in November 2024, Tesla shares have been underperforming against general market trends amidst ongoing political controversies. Simultaneously, Tesla's global sales figures have been adversely impacted, attributed to the company and Musk's political activities taking center stage.

President Trump's stern rhetoric in addressing the violence against Tesla highlights his support for Musk, characterizing the protesters' actions as detrimental to a 'great American company.' Trump's stance was reinforced during a conversation with Musk in the White House, where he underscored a zero-tolerance approach towards perpetrators and suggested significant consequences for similar acts against any company. This narrative is tightly interwoven with the broader definition of domestic terrorism under federal law, which includes violent acts intended to influence public or governmental operations.

The #TeslaTakedown movement, a self-described decentralized grassroots campaign, has emerged as a focal point of collective resentment towards Musk's perceived governmental overreach. Organizers from the movement have articulated their commitment to nonviolence and denounced Trump's attempts to skew the legitimate right to peaceful protest. They argue that protests held on public property do not equate to domestic terrorism, accusing the administration of seeking to suppress democratic expression and dissent.

A potential repercussion of Trump's approach could manifest in how definitions of violence evolve, affecting peaceful protestors' designation. Contextualizing the authoritarian tilt, Trump has suggested punitive measures against international students protesting policies like Israel's war in Gaza, sparking fears that similar threats might extend to those holding visas or green cards in the U.S. who engage in Tesla-related protests. Musk's role as a Trump supporter is underlined by a $260 million donation to elect Trump and his influence over drastic government changes.

Sources: White House Pool Report, TechCrunch, USASpending.gov