FBI creates Tesla threats task force

What they're saying: "This is domestic terrorism," Patel said. "Those responsible will be pursued, caught, and brought to justice."

• The task force will operate in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

State of play: The announcement came hours after multiple "incendiary" devices were found at a Tesla dealer in Austin, Texas, CNBC reported.

• Three people were also charged last week on suspicion of violently destroying Tesla properties.
• Trump has floated sending anti-Tesla protesters to a notorious prison in El Salvador if convicted.

Zoom out: Tesla has become a flashpoint for cultural divisions over Trump and the MAGA movement.

• Tesla sales have slumped in the first quarter, with delivery projections down by more than 4%. The company's stock has also declined.
• There have been #TeslaTakedown protests at dealerships nationwide, in response to Musk's role in the DOGE-driven cuts to the federal workforce and agencies, with organizers urging people to sell their vehicles and get rid of their stock.