Trump: Deport “Terrorists” Protesting Tesla?

President Donald Trump has ignited controversy by suggesting the deportation of individuals protesting against Tesla, even if they are U.S. citizens.

In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump escalated his stance against those he labels “domestic terrorists” for acts against Elon Musk’s electric vehicle company. He ominously mentioned potential 20-year jail sentences, even suggesting imprisonment in El Salvador, referencing his controversial $6 million deal with President Nayib Bukele.

This deal involves deporting individuals, some allegedly wrongly identified as gang members, under the Alien Enemies Act, bypassing due process. Critics point out that this isn’t the first time Trump has floated the idea of deporting U.S. citizens, having previously targeted political opponents like former special counsel Jack Smith.

Since taking office, the Trump administration has been accused of undermining birthright citizenship, weakening protections for immigrants, and suppressing pro-Palestine voices in academia. These actions, critics argue, demonstrate an attempt to broaden the scope of who can be deported, now seemingly including those who vandalize vehicles.

The controversy follows an incident in Las Vegas where five Teslas were damaged in a fire, with the word “RESIST” spray-painted at the scene. Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted a separate case in Colorado where suspects could face significant prison time for vandalizing a Tesla dealership.

Trump has also alleged that these attacks are being funded by a larger network, echoing similar claims made by Elon Musk. He warned that those caught sabotaging Teslas, including their alleged financial backers, could face lengthy prison sentences.