Climate change vandals targeted a Tesla car dealership in Manhattan as a protest against Elon Musk’s collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The activists spray-painted vulgar messages on the store’s windows, but were seen cleaning off some of the graffiti as police arrived. This incident is part of a series of protests against Musk and DOGE, coinciding with Earth Day, which aims to protect the environment. The group responsible for the vandalism is believed to be Extinction Rebellion, known for using non-violent civil disobedience to address climate change issues.
The activists scrawled messages such as “F—k DOGE” and “We do not consent” on the Tesla store’s windows using fluorescent spray paint. They also painted DOGE signs and red lines over them, similar to “no” symbols. The incident occurred in Manhattan’s Meat Packing District, with people present inside the showroom at the time. When police arrived, the two vandals were arrested, with one of them wearing a t-shirt stating “Climate Change = Mass Murder.” The activists claimed their actions were in response to what they see as political inaction on climate change and referred to Earth Day as a reason for their protests.
Extinction Rebellion has claimed responsibility for other acts of vandalism, including spray-painting Wall Street’s Raging Bull. There have been numerous reported attacks on Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations this year, ranging from minor vandalism to more extreme cases like arson and drive-by shootings. These incidents have led to federal lawsuits and have been labeled as “domestic terrorism” by Attorney General Pamela Bondi. Notable incidents include a Molotov cocktail attack on Teslas in Las Vegas and fires set on Cybertrucks in Seattle and Kansas City.
The vandalism of the Tesla dealership is part of a broader trend of anti-Tesla attacks that have occurred across the United States. The incidents reflect the growing tensions around Elon Musk’s involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency and his public persona as a climate change advocate. Musk’s work with DOGE has sparked controversy among environmental activists, some of whom see his efforts as insufficient or at odds with their goals. The protests and acts of vandalism against Tesla locations are a manifestation of these tensions and frustrations within the environmental movement.
Despite the vandalism and protests, Tesla continues to be a popular brand, and many customers remain loyal to the company and its products. The attacks on Tesla vehicles and dealerships have not deterred consumers from purchasing or supporting the brand. However, the incidents have raised concerns about safety and security for Tesla owners and locations, prompting increased vigilance and security measures. The broader debate around Elon Musk’s involvement in government and his impact on issues like climate change is likely to continue, with activists and critics expressing their views through protests and other forms of activism.
In conclusion, the vandalism of the Tesla dealership in Manhattan is part of a series of protests against Elon Musk’s work with the Department of Government Efficiency and his role as a public figure in environmental issues. The incident reflects broader tensions within the environmental movement around Musk’s approach to climate change and sustainability. Despite the attacks on Tesla properties, the brand remains popular among consumers, but concerns about safety and security have been raised. The incidents highlight the complexities surrounding Musk’s public image and his impact on environmental activism, with activists using protests and vandalism to convey their frustrations and concerns.
