Elon Musk’s electric carmaker faces serious headwinds amid his involvement with right-wing politics and the Trump administration.
Tesla, Elon Musk’s carmaker, has faced protests, vandalism and plummeting stock prices amid the billionaire’s involvement with right-wing politics and the Trump administration, as buyers turn away and protesters criticize his growing influence.
Over the past decade, Tesla has gone from a disruptive newcomer in the auto industry to America’s best-selling electric-vehicle brand. But recently, its dealerships have been attacked and many owners have sold their vehicles.
Some buyers who had been drawn to Tesla’s eco-friendly image began losing patience with Mr. Musk after he bought Twitter, which he renamed X, in 2022. He alienated many consumers further when he endorsed Donald J. Trump in last year’s presidential election and spent more than a quarter of a billion dollars to help his campaign.
For some, the deal-breaker came when Mr. Musk made a gesture that resembled a fascist salute while speaking at a rally celebrating President Trump’s inauguration in January. And with Mr. Trump back in office, Mr. Musk, the world’s richest person, has been empowered to make sweeping cuts to federal agencies and fire government workers, fueling anger against him.
Here’s a look at the backlash against Tesla.
Vandals have targeted Tesla dealerships.
Vandals have defaced or destroyed Tesla vehicles and damaged the company’s facilities in at least seven locations across the United States, from Oregon to Massachusetts, over the past month. Shots have been fired at a building, dealership windows have been broken and charging stations have been set on fire. No serious injuries have been reported.
Attorney General Pam Bondi on Tuesday labeled the episodes acts of “domestic terrorism” directed at Mr. Musk, echoing comments by Mr. Trump. If convicted, some of those accused could face sentences of at least five years in prison, Ms. Bondi said, although she did not specify what charges could be brought.