March 24, 2025 — Washington, D.C. — Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a stern warning to Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett following her controversial remarks calling for Elon Musk to be “taken down.” Bondi emphasized that elected officials must be especially careful with their language, especially when such rhetoric could be perceived as inciting violence or fueling ongoing threats against Tesla owners and infrastructure.
Rising Tensions Around Tesla Takedown Movement
Crockett’s comments surfaced during a private call with activists connected to the Tesla Takedown movement, which encourages divestment from the company in protest of Musk’s leadership. Crockett stated: “On March 29, it’s my birthday. All I want to see happen on my birthday is for Elon to be taken down.” Though she later clarified that her statement was nonviolent and metaphorical, Bondi raised concerns about the potential for misinterpretation and the consequences of incendiary political language.
Federal Investigations Underway
During an interview on Fox News, Bondi said, “She is an elected public official, so she needs to tread very carefully… nothing will happen to Elon Musk, and we are going to fight to protect all the Tesla owners throughout this country.”
Her remarks followed a string of attacks on Tesla dealerships and vehicles, including incidents of arson and vandalism. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed the attacks are under investigation and have been classified as acts of domestic terrorism. He noted arrests have already been made, with additional suspects being tracked in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina.
Speech Versus Incitement
The controversy brings renewed focus to the ongoing debate about free speech and its boundaries. While public officials have the right to express political opinions, Bondi cautioned that metaphorical language—when misinterpreted—can lead to real-world violence and property damage.
Critics from across the political spectrum have urged elected leaders to exercise restraint. “Calling for someone to be ‘taken down’—even symbolically—can fan flames in an already volatile environment,” said one law enforcement analyst.
Federal Agencies Committed to Accountability
The Department of Justice has vowed to prosecute those responsible for the Tesla attacks and to dismantle any funding networks behind them. Bondi made it clear: “We are coming after you. The attacks are not isolated—they are organized and targeted. We will find those involved.”
Investigators are also examining links between online rhetoric and real-world violence. Despite the Tesla Takedown movement’s claims of peaceful protest, its association with property destruction has drawn scrutiny. Crockett maintains her intentions were nonviolent, but law enforcement continues to investigate whether her comments could have influenced criminal actions.
A Stark Reminder for Public Officials
Bondi’s warning sends a clear message: public officials must be mindful of their rhetoric. In today’s climate of heightened political polarization, even figurative speech can carry dangerous weight. As Bondi put it: “Incitement to violence, even unintentional, will not be tolerated.”
The broader implications of this controversy are likely to shape future discussions about political responsibility, free expression, and public safety. With additional arrests expected and investigations ongoing, the federal government remains focused on protecting businesses and individuals from the consequences of inflammatory political discourse.