• President Trump credits Attorney General Pam Bondi's stance for reducing attacks on Tesla.
  • Tesla faces ongoing challenges, including political backlash and financial underperformance.
  • The DOJ has charged individuals involved in the attacks, signaling a crackdown on political violence targeting corporations.

Declining Attacks Amid Political Backlash

President Donald Trump has claimed that violent attacks against Tesla facilities and vehicles have decreased following remarks by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who labeled the incidents as "domestic terrorism." The statement comes after a series of coordinated attacks on Tesla properties, which have been linked to backlash over Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration.

"The attacks against Tesla have gone down since Pam Bondi made it clear we're going after those responsible," Trump said, according to people familiar with his comments. The Department of Justice has already charged three individuals in connection with the incidents, with potential prison sentences ranging from five to 20 years.

Tesla's Struggles Beyond the Attacks

Despite the easing of physical threats, Tesla continues to face headwinds. The company reported disappointing Q4 2024 earnings, with revenue of $25.71 billion and adjusted EPS of $0.73—both below analyst expectations. Deliveries also declined year-over-year for the first time in 2024, raising concerns about demand and competition, particularly from Chinese automakers like BYD.

Meanwhile, protests at Tesla dealerships persist, and some owners have sold their vehicles due to discomfort with Musk's political affiliations. The FBI has formed a task force to investigate the attacks, underscoring the severity of the situation.

A Broader Trend in Corporate Targeting

The violence against Tesla reflects a growing trend of political activism directed at businesses perceived as aligned with contentious political figures. While Bondi's tough stance appears to have had a deterrent effect, analysts warn that the underlying tensions remain unresolved. Tesla's stock, already volatile, could face further pressure if the political climate worsens or if Musk's government role draws additional scrutiny.

Attempts to reach Tesla and the DOJ for comment were unsuccessful.