U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that acts of violence targeting Tesla dealerships would be classified as domestic terrorism. The declaration came during a press conference at the White House, where Trump stood alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk to show his support for the company amid ongoing “Tesla Takedown” protests and a decline in Tesla’s stock value.
During the event, Musk shared Tesla’s ambitious plan to double its vehicle production in the United States within the next two years. This announcement follows a series of protests against the electric vehicle manufacturer, which have been fueled by Musk’s involvement in the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce the federal workforce.
Earlier in the day, Trump revealed his intention to purchase a new Tesla as a gesture of solidarity with Musk. “I’m going to buy a brand new Tesla tomorrow morning as a show of confidence and support for Elon Musk, a truly great American,” Trump stated on his Truth Social platform. He praised Musk for “putting it on the line” for the country, describing his efforts as “fantastic.”
Protests have erupted across the U.S. in response to Musk’s leadership of the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which focuses on streamlining federal operations. Last week, approximately 350 demonstrators gathered outside a Tesla dealership in Portland, Oregon. Similarly, a protest in New York City earlier this month resulted in nine arrests.
Musk’s association with the Trump administration has drawn criticism, particularly from those opposed to the administration’s policies. However, Trump’s public endorsement of Musk and Tesla underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting the electric vehicle industry and its efforts to boost domestic manufacturing.
The announcement comes at a critical time for Tesla, as the company seeks to navigate both market challenges and public scrutiny. With plans to significantly expand production, Tesla aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the electric vehicle market while addressing the concerns of its critics.
