Democratic Senator Rejects 'Domestic Terrorism' Label for Tesla Violence Amid Controversy

Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona has openly pushed back on calling recent violent acts at Tesla dealerships "domestic terrorism," despite the term being widely used by Republicans and even the Justice Department. Kelly, who recently ditched his Tesla due to Elon Musk's controversial reputation, instead labeled the acts as "vandalism" and a "significant crime."

Kelly stated, "Certainly vandalism, and it's a crime." He clarified that acts such as firebombing cars or keying vehicles are dangerous and should be investigated and prosecuted. However, when pressed about his reluctance to use the term "terrorism," Kelly said, "I think we got to tread lightly on the whole terrorism word." He believes misuse of such terms could dilute their meaning but emphasized the need for law enforcement to address and prosecute these acts.

Attorney General Pam Bondi and Elon Musk have both recently categorized the violence as "domestic terrorism," drawing a line in the sand that Kelly seems hesitant to cross. The incidents at Tesla locations have included arson, shooting up buildings, and spray-painting provocative messages like "Resist" and "Nazi." The attacks have sparked a strong reaction from conservatives, who accuse Democrats of turning a blind eye.

Among the cited incidents is a March 18 attack in Las Vegas, where a person dressed in black reportedly shot at Tesla cars, set them on fire with Molotov cocktails, and vandalized the shop with graffiti. To date, at least 80 incidents of arson or vandalism against Tesla vehicles have been reported, along with 10 attacks on Tesla dealerships and charging stations across the U.S. and Canada.

Republican Representative Lauren Boebert has taken the issue to Congress, introducing a resolution condemning what she described as "Radical Left-Wing domestic terrorists" targeting Tesla vehicles and facilities. She 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." Her resolution cites the economic and social harm caused by the attacks.

Kelly, on the other hand, has distanced himself from the broader rhetoric. While he has condemned the violence more than many top Democrats, his refusal to use the term "terrorism" has drawn mixed reactions. He has also drawn attention for trading in his Tesla for a Chevy Tahoe SUV, calling Musk "a--hole" and accusing him of "dismantling our government and hurting people." This switch earned him both praise and criticism, proving that even personal car choices can become political statements these days.

Despite the heated debate, one thing is clear: the violence at Tesla dealerships has ignited more than just cars. It’s sparked a political firestorm, with each side accusing the other of hypocrisy and inaction. Whether or not these acts are officially labeled as terrorism, they highlight increasing tensions over Elon Musk's polarizing role in politics and society.