• Vandalism and arson incidents targeting Tesla properties are on the rise across the United States.
• Attorney General Pam Bondi characterized these acts as "domestic terrorism" and announced a crackdown on the perpetrators.
• Elon Musk expressed shock at the extreme backlash Tesla has faced and denied any wrongdoing by the company.
• Multiple enforcement actions are underway, with the possibility of severe legal repercussions for those involved.

In a troubling trend, numerous incidents of vandalism and arson targeting Tesla properties have prompted a harsh response from the Trump administration. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the violent actions as “nothing short of domestic terrorism” during a statement on Tuesday. The Department of Justice has initiated investigations and is pursuing charges against several individuals linked to these crimes, which Bonid notes could lead to mandatory minimum sentences of five years.

The recent fallout began with an attack on a Tesla collision center in Las Vegas, where multiple vehicles were set ablaze, and the word "resist" was spray-painted on the building, as reported by Channel News Asia. Such incidents reflect a broader backlash against Elon Musk's increasing visibility and collaboration with President Trump during his second term, particularly in his role spearheading the Department of Government Efficiency.

Data compiled by Newsweek illustrates a nationwide wave of attacks, including instances of vandalism, gunfire at dealerships, and even arson. This escalation has seen Tesla vehicles targeted not only in the U.S. but beyond, drawing criticism from various political factions.

In a media appearance, Musk remarked on the unexpected nature of the hostility directed toward Tesla, stating, “Tesla is a peaceful company, we’ve never done anything harmful.” He also emphasized the shocking amount of violence coming from those he perceives as political opponents, a sentiment echoed by other political figures including Trump. “We’re going to catch you, and you’re going to go through hell,” Trump declared regarding those involved in the attacks.

TV personality and businessman Kevin O’Leary underscored the urgency of the situation on CNN, stressing that actions like burning a car should merit serious criminal consequences. He asserted, “You’re going to spend five to 20 years in prison,” as law enforcement ramps up efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for the vandalism.

As the Tesla brand wrestles with public relations challenges, including falling approval among liberals that once embraced its innovation, Times of India highlights the breadth of backlash against Tesla sales, particularly in Europe where figures have reportedly plummeted dramatically. The Vancouver International Auto Show has also removed Tesla from its lineup over safety concerns.

The Department of Justice remains committed to investigating these attacks, pledging to hold accountable anyone found coordinating or funding acts of vandalism against Tesla. As tensions persist, the conversation surrounding Tesla continues to evolve in an environment rife with political implications.

If you would like more details, please refer to the original articles from Channel News Asia, Newsweek, Times of India, and Newsweek.