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This week saw a continuation of a troubling trend as Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) showrooms, vehicle lots, and charging stations across the United States and abroad have become the focus of violent attacks. These incidents, involving arson and vandalism, have escalated without any reported injuries but are raising concerns among law enforcement and experts in domestic extremism.
The increase in attacks coincides with the tenure of President Donald Trump, who appointed Elon Musk to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency aimed at cutting government spending. While it’s too early to determine if these events will persist, they are reminiscent of the protests that targeted Trump’s properties during his first term and early second term.
Despite numerous peaceful protests at Tesla facilities in North America and Europe, some Tesla owners are considering selling their cars in response to the controversy.
Legal action has been taken in response to the attacks. In Colorado, a woman was charged for her involvement in Tesla dealership attacks, including the use of Molotov cocktails and vandalism. In South Carolina, a man was arrested for setting Tesla charging stations ablaze, with authorities discovering writings critical of the government and DOGE in his possession.
The Pacific Northwest, a region known for its left-leaning politics, has seen some of the most severe incidents. An Oregon man was charged for attacking a Tesla store with Molotov cocktails and gunfire. Similarly, a Tesla showroom in Tigard, a suburb of Portland, was shot at, marking the second attack on the store within a week. Seattle experienced the arson of four Cybertrucks, and on Friday, a Tesla Model S was set on fire on a city street.
In a recent event, several Tesla vehicles were set on fire early Tuesday at a Tesla service center in Las Vegas, where the word "resist" was painted on the building.
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