I am a proud Democrat, a supporter of progressive causes, and—until recently—a satisfied Tesla owner. I bought my Tesla because it was the right thing to do: a step toward sustainability, a response to the call for cleaner energy, and a way to reduce my carbon footprint. But over the past few weeks, driving my car in North Jersey and New York City has become a nightmare—not because of traffic or road conditions, but because of the hostility directed at me simply for owning a Tesla.
I’ve had rocks and water bottles hurled at my car while driving. Strangers have given me the middle finger as I pass by.
Two weeks ago, I walked out of a store in NYC to find a man urinating on my parked car.
My vehicle has been scratched, dented, and soaked in ways I never imagined. I’m not alone in this—other Tesla drivers I know are facing similar harassment. What’s changed? It seems that owning a Tesla has suddenly branded me as “the enemy” in the eyes of some.
Let me be clear: I’m not a Republican, a tech bro, or a Musk apologist.
I’m a Democrat who believed in the vision of electric vehicles as a collective good. Now, I’m being punished for it. I drive a lot for work and errands, but lately, I dread getting behind the wheel. I’m trapped in a lease I can’t escape, and no one wants to buy my car in this climate. I’m not asking for pity—just for the attacks to stop.
To those lashing out: I get it. There’s anger out there, and maybe Tesla’s CEO has become a lightning rod for it. But I’m not him, and neither are most Tesla drivers. We’re with you, not against you. Please redirect your frustration where it belongs—toward the Republicans and their gas-guzzling pickup trucks, not my little electric sedan. Let’s not turn on each other when we’re on the same side. Before someone gets seriously hurt, let’s refocus this energy on the real fight ahead.
Lauren, Bergen County, NJ
OPINION/LETTER TO THE EDITOR
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