Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) is facing criticism over her involvement in the Tesla Takedown protest effort after comments she made during a rally drew backlash from Attorney General Pam Bondi. Bondi accused the congresswoman of making a veiled threat against Elon Musk, pointing to Crockett’s statement that she wanted to see Musk “taken down” on her birthday.
The Texas Democrat has insisted her remarks referred to the protest effort targeting Tesla, not Musk personally. During an appearance on MSNBC, she stated that the event was entirely nonviolent and that she had advised all participants to follow the law and respect public order.
NEW: AG Pam Bondi says Rep. Jasmine Crockett could be CENSURED by Congress after calling for Elon Musk to be “taken down” and for Ted Cruz to be “knocked in the head.”
Bondi warned that Crockett’s words were so reckless and inflammatory, they could warrant an official reprimand… pic.twitter.com/x52Y5fgIj6
— The Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) March 25, 2025
The Tesla Takedown movement is planning more than 500 protests at dealerships and facilities across the country on March 29. According to the group’s website, the demonstrations are meant to challenge Musk’s political influence and business practices without engaging in violence.
'TREAD VERY CAREFULLY': @AGPamBondi warned @RepJasmine (D-TX) after the Democrat threatened @elonmusk during a nationwide call with the Tesla Takedown movement, suggesting Musk should be "taken down." https://t.co/Qp9jxtgium pic.twitter.com/SycJ9bmWfu
— Fox News (@FoxNews) March 24, 2025
Bondi’s comments were made during a Fox News segment where she warned that Crockett, as an elected official, should “tread carefully” when discussing public figures. She suggested Crockett’s remarks crossed a line and accused her of encouraging unrest.
Crockett responded by accusing Bondi of twisting her words for political gain. She highlighted her role on the DOGE Oversight Committee and said her criticisms were aimed at Musk’s involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency, not at Musk as a person.
The protests come amid rising tensions around Musk’s role in the Trump administration. The federal government has already labeled arson attacks on Tesla vehicles as domestic terrorism, though no evidence has linked those incidents to the Tesla Takedown campaign.
Crockett also pushed back on comparisons to prior protests, criticizing the Trump administration’s decision to pardon individuals convicted in connection with the Jan. 6 demonstrations at the Capitol.
