FBI Launches Task Force To Address Tesla Protests: Director Kash Patel Condemns Violence As 'Domestic Terrorism'

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched a new task force aimed at investigative efforts to combat the rising threat of violent attacks involving Tesla, Inc. TSLA.

Condemning the attacks as “domestic terrorism,” FBI Director Kash Patel took to social media to address the crisis.

“The FBI has been investigating the increase in violent activity toward Tesla, and over the last few days, we have taken additional steps to crack down and coordinate our response,” Patel posted in X, formerly known as Twitter.

“This is domestic terrorism. Those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice,” the post added.

President Donald Trump has also denounced the Tesla protests as “domestic terrorism,” even as he portrays the attempted insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, as “a beautiful day” and the rioters involved as heroes.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has made significant political donations to Trump and leads the White House’s Department of Government Efficiency.

Also Read: ‘Why The Hate And Violence Against Me?’—Elon Musk Questions Backlash, Says He’s Only Made Products People Love, Never Physically Hurt Anyone

The post follows FBI’s recent public warning concerning a rise in attacks on properties owned by Tesla.

In a statement dated March 21, the FBI pointed out that Tesla dealerships have been the victims of firebomb attacks and gunfire in recent months.

The advisory, named “Individuals Target Tesla Vehicles and Dealerships Nationwide with Arson, Gunfire, and Vandalism,” informed the public about incidents targeting Tesla electric vehicles, dealerships, storage lots, and charging stations since January 2025.

Ben Williamson, the FBI’s Assistant Director for Public Affairs, confirmed on X that the said task force will collaborate with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to carry out its operations.

“More to come,” Williamson added, hinting at more protocols that the Government can take up in the case.

Meanwhile, Musk posted a controversial statement on social media, suggesting that transgender individuals could be responsible for the incidents.

The rising number of vandalism cases has financial consequences for Tesla and its customers. Experts warn that the trend could lead to increased insurance premiums for Tesla vehicles.

Additionally, there has been a notable increase in Tesla trade-ins, potentially linked to backlash against Musk’s far-right political stances. Federal agencies have issued warnings about the growing frequency of these incidents, urging Tesla owners to remain cautious.

According to Benzinga Pro, TSLA stock has lost over 8% in the past month. Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Simplify Volt TSLA Revolution ETF TESL and Roundhill ETF Trust Roundhill TSLA WeeklyPay ETF TSW.

Price Action: Tesla shares are trading lower by 1.77% to $273 at last check Tuesday. The stock is down 28% year-to-date.

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