Rick Wilson, co-founder of the Lincoln Project and longtime opponent of President Donald Trump, has lost his X account after a post promoting anti-Tesla sentiment drew sharp condemnation. The offending post referenced a paid article with the headline “Kill Tesla, Save The Country” and included a photo of a Tesla vehicle on fire.
Wilson also included the phrase “Elon has a weak spot. Attack,” alongside the image, which was reportedly connected to a real-life incident in Las Vegas. The aggressive wording and imagery caused widespread alarm, prompting a 30-day suspension that quickly became permanent.
https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/190246169393198290
Musk responded directly by sharing a screenshot of the article and calling Wilson “a psycho.” Others on the right said the post resembled incitement and compared it to calls for violence.
While Wilson claimed the article advocated for legal activism and financial pressure on Tesla, it described the company as a “bank for fascists” and mocked Musk’s ambitions. The article also linked Tesla’s value to Musk’s ability to influence politics.
Wilson refused to delete the post or walk back the language. Instead, he posted a lengthy video on Substack filled with insults aimed at Musk and mocked those criticizing him. His article remained behind a paywall, though parts were made public.
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that recent attacks on Tesla are considered acts of domestic terrorism. She said several people had already been charged and warned that the government is also targeting those who are financially backing or planning these crimes.
Wilson has a history of extreme language. In 2015, he said someone should “put a bullet in Donald Trump.” That comment resurfaced after two assassination attempts on Trump occurred within months of each other in 2024.
Wilson’s group, the Lincoln Project, was formed in 2019 to oppose Trump’s reelection. The organization also faced backlash after co-founder John Weaver was accused of sexual misconduct involving young men.
