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Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is facing an unprecedented wave of vandalism and protests across the United States, as CEO Elon Musk’s growing political influence continues to polarize public opinion. From damaged charging stations to targeted showrooms, law enforcement agencies are investigating multiple incidents that appear to stem from backlash over Musk’s role in the Trump administration and recent federal budget cuts linked to his Department of Government Efficiency.
While many demonstrations against Tesla have remained peaceful, featuring protestors carrying signs and chanting anti-Musk slogans, a troubling rise in vandalism has raised concerns over the company’s financial stability and consumer sentiment.
A Surge in Attacks: Tesla Showrooms and Vehicles Targeted
In a series of alarming events, Tesla facilities and vehicles have been targeted in what authorities describe as politically motivated acts of vandalism:
- March 3: Seven Tesla charging stations in a Boston mall parking lot were deliberately set on fire after midnight.
- March 7: A Tesla showroom in Tigard, Oregon, was struck by gunfire at approximately 1:45 a.m., damaging three vehicles and shattering windows. A stray bullet also punctured an office wall and computer monitor.
- January-February: In Loveland, Colorado, 23-year-old Lucy Grace Nelson was arrested for allegedly spray-painting the word “Nazi” on Tesla vehicles and store windows. She also threw Molotov cocktails at the dealership. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison.
- Online Reports: Tesla owners have taken to social media to report instances of their vehicles being defaced with political graffiti or physical damage, raising fears among potential buyers.
Tigard police issued a statement acknowledging the pattern of attacks, stating, “While the motivation for this has not been confirmed, we are aware that other Tesla dealerships have been targeted across Oregon and the nation for political reasons.”
Elon Musk Responds: Defending Free Speech and Condemning Vandalism
Elon Musk, a vocal proponent of free speech and the owner of X (formerly Twitter), has taken to social media to decry the recent wave of attacks. In response to a viral video of a man defending his actions of vandalizing a Tesla as an expression of free speech, Musk commented, “Damaging the property of others, aka vandalism, is not free speech!”
Tesla’s official Charging division also weighed in, warning that the company will take legal action against individuals caught defacing Supercharger stations. Meanwhile, Musk expressed gratitude to Tesla supporters, posting on X, “Heartfelt thanks to everyone supporting Tesla, despite many attacks against our stores and offices.”
Tesla’s Declining Sales: Is the Backlash Hurting Business?
Tesla’s struggles extend beyond acts of vandalism. The company is experiencing its first-ever annual decline in sales, exacerbated by increasing competition and negative public sentiment:
- Europe: Tesla sales dropped 50% in January despite a 34% surge in overall EV sales across the continent.
- China: Tesla’s second-largest market saw a 29% drop in sales during the first two months of 2025.
- United States: Sales fell 16% between December and January, according to Cox Automotive estimates.
Tesla’s stock price has also taken a hit, declining 14% in midday trading Monday and erasing the gains made after Election Day. Investors initially believed Musk’s ties to the Trump administration would bolster Tesla’s prospects, but growing public resistance and economic factors are contributing to a volatile market outlook.
What’s Next for Tesla?
As Tesla grapples with declining sales and a surge in vandalism, the company faces an uncertain future. While Musk continues to champion Tesla’s technological advancements and dismisses critics, the brand’s public image is under intense scrutiny. Whether the company can recover from this period of turmoil will depend on its ability to regain consumer trust, stabilize its market position, and navigate the political controversy surrounding its leadership.