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FIRST ON FOX: Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona recently made headlines when he decided to part ways with his Tesla. This move came against the backdrop of escalating protests targeting Tesla dealerships in response to the actions of Elon Musk regarding DOGE. Kelly’s comments have drawn attention as he refrains from labeling the violence as ‘domestic terrorism,’ a term many, including Republicans and the Justice Department, have employed.
While speaking to Fox News Digital, Kelly described the vandalism at Tesla dealerships as a crime that warrants significant attention. He stated, “Certainly vandalism and it’s a crime.” When asked if this could be classified as terrorism, he reiterated his stance.
He explained, “It’s a significant crime, especially if you’re going to firebomb a car or vandalize somebody’s vehicle or even key somebody’s vehicle. They shouldn’t be doing it. And these should be investigated. And if people are caught, they should be prosecuted.” His firm condemnation of such actions reflects a growing concern within the community.
Notably, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Elon Musk have both labeled the violence against Tesla as ‘domestic terrorism’ in recent weeks. Kelly’s reluctance to adopt this terminology reveals a cautious approach to the issue.
When pressed on his choice of words, Kelly said, “I think we got to tread lightly on the whole terrorism word.” He elaborated, saying, “We sometimes try to expand this thing; it kind of loses its focus. But when folks are vandalizing people’s vehicles or dealerships, it is wrong and it’s dangerous. Somebody is going to get hurt. And for that reason, we should put the full force of law enforcement behind this problem and prosecute people.”
Despite Kelly’s condemnation of the violence, many Democratic leaders have not addressed the situation, facing criticism for their silence amidst these protests. Conservative commentators have noted the stark contrast between the reactions to violence against Tesla and their previous reactions to other incidents deemed as domestic terrorism.
Highlighted in the discourse recently was how Fox News Digital reached out to numerous Democrats known for their outspoken views against domestic terrorism. Inquiries were made about their positions on the vandalism against Tesla. Shockingly, none of the Democrats responded to these requests, raising questions about accountability and leadership.
In a noteworthy turn of events, Kelly previously announced his choice to abandon his Tesla, describing it as “a rolling billboard for a man dismantling our government and hurting people.” This strong language about Musk added fuel to the fire regarding the ongoing conflicts between political figures and corporate leaders.
Following his departure from Tesla, Kelly transitioned to a Chevy Tahoe SUV, another decision that sparked conversations within political circles. As protests against Tesla escalate, outrage from various factions, especially conservatives, continues to grow.
On Tuesday, Representative Lauren Boebert from Colorado introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives aimed at unnamed members of the Democratic Party. This resolution vehemently condemns individuals who allegedly incited violence against Tesla vehicles and facilities as a means of protest against Musk.
Boebert stated, “The definition of terrorism is the unlawful use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims. That is exactly what has been going on across the country at Tesla dealerships. Innocent Americans who have chosen Tesla as their vehicle are facing violence from radical left-wing domestic terrorists who harbor resentment for President Trump and Elon Musk.”
The resolution references at least 80 documented incidents of vandalism or arson against Tesla vehicles, alongside 10 incidents involving vandalism of Tesla dealerships, charging stations, and facilities across North America.
These incidents include alarming occurrences of individuals throwing Molotov cocktails at vehicles, shooting at buildings, and defacing properties with messages like ‘Nazi’ and ‘Long Live Ukraine.’ Such violent acts raise significant concerns about public safety and the civil discourse surrounding corporate protests.
One particularly severe incident occurred in Las Vegas on March 18. According to reports, an assailant dressed in black shot at Tesla cars at a local collision center, subsequently igniting several vehicles with Molotov cocktails. The words ‘Resist’ were spray-painted on the shop’s front doors, illustrating the deeply contentious nature of these protests against Tesla.
As discussions about violence against Tesla unfold, the dichotomy of reactions from various political factions remains a focal point. The questions surrounding accountability, political rhetoric, and public safety continue to drive narratives around the vandalism affecting Tesla dealerships.
In the rapidly changing political climate, responses to acts of violence become crucial in shaping both public opinion and legal consequences. As lawmakers grapple with these incidents, the broader implications for free speech and protest in America remain ever relevant.
Fox News Digital’s Peter Pinedo contributed to this report.
