President Trump issued a strong warning to far-left activists targeting Tesla, vowing to label violent attacks on dealerships as domestic terrorism. “You’re going to go through hell,” Trump declared, standing alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk at the White House. The announcement follows a wave of protests and vandalism against Tesla properties, including arson, graffiti, and Molotov cocktails thrown at charging stations.
Trump praised Musk as a “patriot” and announced plans to buy a Tesla Model S for White House staff. He blamed “radical left lunatics” for illegal boycotts and collusion against the company. Tesla’s stock has plummeted nearly 50% since Musk began advising Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has slashed federal spending and agencies. Protesters have dubbed Tesla vehicles “Swasticars” and vandalized dealerships, with nine arrests made in New York City alone.
Environmental Progress founder Michael Shellenberger criticized the vandalism, calling it counterproductive. “Tesla’s factories use industry-leading water efficiency and have planted over 1 million trees this year,” he noted. Shellenberger, once a renewables advocate, now argues nuclear energy and companies like Tesla are critical for clean energy transitions. He dismissed protesters as “paid activists” ignoring Tesla’s environmental progress while attacking a company reducing fossil fuel reliance.
Musk pledged to double U.S. vehicle output within two years, crediting Trump’s policies. Despite sales declines and layoffs, Musk vowed to remain CEO and expand Tesla’s role in America’s energy future. Critics accuse Musk of prioritizing politics over business, but supporters argue he’s fighting bureaucratic waste.
Conservative leaders framed the crackdown as a defense of law and order. “Peaceful protest isn’t terrorism, but burning cars and throwing firebombs is,” said one Fox News commentator. Trump’s threat to deport visa holders involved in protests drew cheers from his base, who view the DOGE reforms as vital to cutting government bloat.
The Biden-era push for electric vehicles has stalled under Trump, who revoked mandates favoring EVs. Conservatives argue Tesla’s success proves innovation beats regulation, while left-wing critics claim Musk’s alliance with Trump undermines climate goals.
As tensions rise, Tesla’s future hinges on balancing its green mission with a polarized political landscape. For now, Trump and Musk stand united against what they call “anarchy” threatening American businesses.
