Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) CEO Elon Musk strongly criticized what he described as “extreme domestic terrorism” on Tuesday, responding to reports that a website had published personal details of Tesla owners across the United States.
What Happened?
Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the situation after reports surfaced that a site called “Dogequest” had exposed Tesla owners’ names, addresses, and phone numbers. The website also featured an interactive map with a Molotov cocktail cursor.
“Encouraging destruction of Teslas throughout the country is extreme domestic terrorism!!” Musk wrote, expressing outrage over the potential targeting of Tesla customers.
Reports indicate that the site demands Tesla owners provide proof of selling their vehicles to have their personal details removed. The motive appears linked to Musk’s involvement in President Donald Trump’s administration.
Escalating Anti-Tesla Sentiment
This data leak is the latest development in a broader wave of hostility against Tesla. Incidents of vandalism and attacks on Tesla-related infrastructure have been increasing across the country.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) recently called for a federal investigation into what she termed “organized attacks” against Tesla. In her letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, Greene cited several alarming events, including:
- Tesla charging stations in the Boston area being severely damaged.
- A Portland dealership being targeted by gunfire.
- Cybertrucks set on fire in Seattle in apparent acts of arson.
Greene also raised concerns about possible links between these attacks and organizations affiliated with the Democratic Party. She pointed to groups that “receive a significant amount of funding from ActBlue,” suggesting potential political motivations behind the attacks.
Why It Matters
Anti-Tesla demonstrations have become increasingly visible, further exacerbating tensions. Notable investor Ross Gerber recently shared footage of protests outside a Tesla store in Santa Monica.
Despite being a long-time Tesla investor, Gerber has become more critical of the company, particularly its stock valuation. He noted that Tesla shares remain overpriced “even after plunging nearly 50% since mid-December.”
Beyond public demonstrations, individual Tesla owners have also reported incidents of vandalism. One notable case involved a defaced Cybertruck in New York City. The vehicle’s owner, Avi Ben Hamo, shared his frustration with The New York Post, saying, “I feel myself burning inside.”
Tesla’s Brand Challenges and Musk’s Political Ties
The controversy surrounding Tesla coincides with Musk’s dual role as both the CEO of the automaker and the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency in the Trump administration.
Tesla has faced increasing business challenges in recent months. The company reported its first annual sales decline in 2024, raising concerns among analysts. On Wednesday, JPMorgan Chase analysts warned that Tesla has “lost too much brand value too quickly.”
Despite these struggles, Trump has continued to express strong support for Musk. During a recent White House event, the former president purchased a Tesla Model S Plaid, calling Musk a “patriot” who was being “unfairly maligned” for his role in government efficiency efforts.
The Growing Threat Against Tesla and Its Customers
The emergence of sites like Dogequest and the rise in anti-Tesla incidents point to an increasingly hostile environment for the company and its customers.
The website’s demand that Tesla owners sell their vehicles to remove their personal information has alarmed many. Critics argue that such tactics amount to intimidation, effectively pressuring owners to abandon their Tesla vehicles out of fear.
The fact that the website includes an interactive map with a Molotov cocktail cursor adds to concerns that Tesla customers could become targets of violence or harassment.
Political Implications and the Call for Federal Action
Rep. Greene’s call for a federal investigation underscores the seriousness of the situation. In her letter to Attorney General Bondi and FBI Director Patel, she urged authorities to determine whether coordinated efforts are driving attacks on Tesla.
She pointed to possible funding connections between groups engaged in anti-Tesla activities and ActBlue, a platform widely used for Democratic fundraising. While no direct evidence has been presented linking political organizations to the attacks, the claim has fueled partisan debates over Tesla’s challenges.
Musk’s Role and the Response from Tesla’s Leadership
Musk has remained vocal in his criticism of what he sees as politically motivated hostility against Tesla. His position within the Trump administration has made him a polarizing figure, drawing both praise and condemnation.
Tesla executives have not released an official statement regarding the Dogequest website, but sources within the company suggest that legal action is being considered to address the privacy violations.
Tesla security teams are reportedly monitoring threats against customers and facilities closely. The company has also encouraged Tesla owners to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
Broader Market Implications for Tesla
Beyond the immediate security concerns, Tesla’s stock performance has also been impacted by recent controversies. The 50% decline in Tesla shares since mid-December has raised questions about investor confidence in the company’s future.
JPMorgan Chase analysts warn that Tesla is facing a critical moment. The combination of brand damage, declining sales, and political controversies could have long-term effects on the company’s market position.
Tesla has historically been seen as a leader in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. However, competition from other automakers, shifting consumer sentiment, and Musk’s political associations have complicated its standing.
Protests and Vandalism—A New Reality for Tesla?
The rise in Tesla-related vandalism and attacks suggests that hostility toward the company is not an isolated trend. The protests in Santa Monica, arson cases in Seattle, and vandalism incidents in New York all point to a broader shift in public sentiment.
Ross Gerber’s comments about Tesla’s valuation reflect growing skepticism among investors. Despite the company’s past dominance in the EV market, its brand perception is under strain.
The question remains whether Tesla can effectively address these challenges and regain public trust.
What’s Next?
As Musk continues to speak out against what he sees as politically motivated attacks on Tesla, the company faces mounting pressure on multiple fronts.
- Legal Action Against Dogequest – Tesla may pursue legal avenues to have the website taken down and hold those responsible accountable for doxxing Tesla owners.
- Increased Security Measures – Given the rise in targeted vandalism and arson, Tesla may need to enhance security at its facilities and provide guidance to customers on protecting their vehicles.
- Political Tensions – Musk’s involvement in the Trump administration could continue to fuel partisan debates surrounding Tesla. Whether this benefits or harms the company in the long run remains to be seen.
Conclusion
Elon Musk’s condemnation of the Dogequest website underscores the growing hostility Tesla and its customers are facing. Reports of doxxing, vandalism, and protests indicate a broader shift in public sentiment, with political divisions further complicating the company’s challenges.
With Tesla’s stock under pressure and brand reputation at risk, the company must navigate these turbulent times carefully. Whether through legal action, security enhancements, or public messaging, how Tesla responds to these threats could determine its trajectory in the coming months.
For now, the situation remains tense, with Tesla owners, investors, and executives closely watching the developments unfold.