A wave of vandalism and arson attacks targeting Tesla properties has erupted across the United States and overseas, with showrooms, charging stations, and vehicles—including the recently released Cybertruck—falling victim to destruction. The incidents have been particularly concentrated in left-leaning cities such as Portland, Seattle, and Las Vegas, where opposition to both Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump remains strong.
The surge in attacks follows Musk’s appointment to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump’s administration. The move, which grants Musk influence over government spending reductions, has further polarized public opinion about the billionaire entrepreneur and his company.
A Pattern of Attacks
In recent weeks, numerous Tesla-related properties have been targeted. In Seattle, four Cybertrucks were set ablaze in a company lot. In Las Vegas, vandals torched several Tesla vehicles and spray-painted “Resist” across a service center’s entrance. Meanwhile, Tesla showrooms in Oregon have been hit with Molotov cocktails, gunfire, and graffiti labeling the cars as “Nazi vehicles.”
Authorities are investigating whether the incidents are connected and whether they are politically motivated. Federal agents in South Carolina recently arrested a suspect accused of setting fire to Tesla charging stations near Charleston. Documents found in his possession reportedly contained anti-government statements and criticism of DOGE.
FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans acknowledged the potential political implications of the attacks, stating, “This has hallmarks of politically motivated violence—whether it meets the threshold of terrorism remains under investigation.”
Tesla’s Shifting Political Identity
Once a symbol of progressive innovation, Tesla has increasingly become associated with conservative politics, particularly after Musk’s high-profile support for Trump. His $250 million donation to Trump’s 2024 campaign, along with his acquisition of Twitter (now X) and removal of content moderation policies, has alienated many former supporters.
Musk addressed the vandalism during a podcast with Senator Ted Cruz, suggesting that left-wing groups were responsible for organizing the attacks. “At least some of it is organized and paid for,” Musk claimed, without providing evidence. He later took to X, denouncing the violence: “Tesla just makes electric cars and has done nothing to deserve these evil attacks.”
In response, progressive organization Indivisible, which has organized peaceful protests against Musk, condemned the violence while reaffirming its opposition to his political influence. “We explicitly encourage peaceful protest and condemn any acts of violence or vandalism,” the group said in a statement.
White House and Law Enforcement Response
Trump has called the attacks on Tesla “domestic terror” and vowed harsh consequences for those responsible. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced an investigation into potential funding sources for the attacks, warning, “If you’re targeting Tesla, you better watch out because we’re coming after you.”
Despite the political storm surrounding the company, many Tesla owners remain loyal. Theresa Ramsdell, president of the Tesla Owners of Washington State club, said she won’t be intimidated. “Hate on Elon and Trump all you want—that’s your choice,” she said. “But destroying property isn’t the way to make a statement.”
As the political divide surrounding Musk and Tesla deepens, law enforcement officials are preparing for more unrest. With tensions rising, the company remains in the spotlight—not just for its vehicles, but as a flashpoint in America’s ongoing ideological battle.
