Staff Reports
The rise of anti-Tesla sentiment has reached a fever pitch, with protests, vandalism, and even violence targeting Tesla vehicles, facilities, and their owners. This backlash stems largely from Elon Musk’s prominent role in the Trump administration and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has made him a polarizing figure. On March 29th, the “Tesla Takedown” campaign culminated in a global day of action, with protests at over 250 Tesla locations worldwide. While many demonstrations were peaceful, others escalated into acts of vandalism and arson, leaving Tesla owners and enthusiasts increasingly concerned for their safety.
Among the incidents that have captured national attention was an attack during a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans. Joshua Hazel, a proud Tesla Cybertruck owner, was participating in the Orpheus parade with fellow Tesla enthusiasts when his vehicle was vandalized. A man from the crowd hurled glass beads at Hazel’s Cybertruck, injuring his wife and damaging the vehicle. Another participant’s Cybertruck was similarly attacked with heavy objects, resulting in costly repairs. Hazel described the experience as “hateful” and “violent,” reflecting the hostility that has become emblematic of the anti-Tesla movement.
The protests and attacks are part of a broader backlash against Musk’s political alignment with former President Donald Trump and his controversial policies. Critics accuse Musk of using his influence to dismantle federal agencies and implement sweeping budget cuts, actions that have drawn ire from labor unions and progressive activists alike. The Tesla Takedown campaign seeks to undermine Musk’s wealth by targeting Tesla sales and stock value. However, this movement has also sparked concerns about escalating violence, with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi labeling some incidents as “domestic terrorism.”
Despite these challenges, Musk remains defiant. In a recent interview, he condemned the attacks on Tesla as “a great wrong” and emphasized that his company has done nothing to warrant such hostility. Musk’s supporters argue that these protests are politically motivated attempts to stifle innovation and punish him for his association with Trump’s administration. They contend that Tesla represents American ingenuity and environmental progress, making it an undeserving target of such vitriol.
The anti-Tesla sentiment has had tangible consequences for the company. Tesla’s sales have declined in key markets like Europe and the United States, while its stock price has plummeted by nearly 50% since the start of 2025. Meanwhile, competitors such as Hyundai and BYD are capitalizing on Tesla’s struggles, gaining market share as public perception shifts. For many Tesla owners like Hazel, these developments are disheartening but not enough to dampen their enthusiasm for electric vehicles. As tensions continue to rise, the future of Tesla—and its role in the EV revolution—remains uncertain amidst an increasingly volatile political climate.
