Tesla Protesters Reject Vandalism Despite Escalating Tensions

Tesla Protesters Reject Vandalism Despite Escalating Tensions

In recent weeks, Tesla locations and vehicles have experienced a surge of vandalism, ranging from the use of Molotov cocktails to keying cars. These acts of defiance have raised significant concerns and attracted the attention of authorities.

During a scheduled protest in New York City, a gathering of individuals discussed their perspectives on whether vandalism serves as an effective form of protest. The event was a part of over 200 “Tesla Takedown” demonstrations planned worldwide.

Protesters Stand Firm Against Vandalism

Organizers characterized the protest as a peaceful movement opposing what they described as the malignant presence of Elon Musk, the head of the company, and the cryptocurrency DOGE. Despite the upheaval caused by vandalism, many participants, including Maggie from Park Slope, Brooklyn, expressed their commitment to peaceful resistance.

“I have to resist with every fiber of my being, not keying a Tesla when I see one, but no,” she stated when asked about vandalism as a protest tactic. “The people who bought Teslas may have buyer’s remorse, wishing they had not made that choice as they trade them in at record rates.”

High-Profile Backlash Against Tesla

Several public figures have notably distanced themselves from Tesla. Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona and singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow have both made headlines for letting go of their Teslas in protest against Musk’s conduct.

Jay, another protester from Brooklyn, articulated his concerns regarding the effectiveness of vandalism. “Is it effective politically? I would say no, as it would likely provoke significant backlash,” he explained.

Victims of Vandalism Share Their Stories

The narrative of protest and vandalism deepens as more victims of such acts emerge. One such victim, Abigail Gill, a disabled Tesla owner from Wichita, Kansas, recently shared her distress after discovering her vehicle had been keyed. Gill depends on her Tesla for mobility, making the act of vandalism particularly impactful.

Public Sentiment on Tesla’s Popularity

Scott, a resident of Staten Island, expressed a strong disapproval of violence towards Musk or his vehicles. He noted the increasing popularity of Teslas in his area, emphasizing the complexity of the issue. “On Staten Island, you see quite a few Teslas, and in New Jersey, the trend is similar. They’re becoming quite popular. So what can you do?” he remarked.

The popularity of Tesla vehicles has faced scrutiny, as evidenced by a significant stock market plunge. The company’s stock fell by 36 percent in the first quarter of 2025, a downturn attributed to the growing dissent against Musk’s management.

Call for Peaceful Protest and Accountability

Laura, another protester from Brooklyn, shared her thoughts on effective methods of protest. “This is the most acceptable way, which is what everyone is doing out here today — protesting. Burning a car is an entirely different act, and I don’t think it’s effective, as it gives people a reason to dismiss all who are peacefully protesting today,” she explained.

As the protests unfolded in New York City, local officials have raised concerns about reports involving potential Tesla buyers testing the cars’ safety features in a reckless manner near the company’s showroom in the Meatpacking District. These allegations have prompted calls for police investigations.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding Tesla and its corporate leadership highlights a broader critique of consumer and corporate responsibility, with many still standing by their commitment to non-violence. The protesters reaffirm their rejection of vandalism while attempting to address the grievances they believe warrant such extreme actions.

In a time characterized by contentious discourse, the message from the protests is clear. While Tesla’s image may be under siege, the push for change will continue through peaceful means.

Report contributed by Fox News Digital’s Emma Colton.