The trail for this group likely leads back to a billionaire who collaborated with Nazis during WWII. An Oregon-based legal organization linked to Antifa is now training activists to target Elon Musk and Tesla. CLDC has a documented history of assisting Antifa members in legal matters. The group’s executive director advised activists to be “strategic and effective” in their protests against Tesla.
Antifa-Linked Legal Group Targets Tesla
The Civil Liberties Defense Center (CLDC), an Oregon-based legal organization with documented ties to Antifa, has emerged as a major player in the growing movement against Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk. The organization is now actively providing legal training to activists taking part in nationwide anti-Tesla demonstrations. This development marks a step up in the politically motivated campaign against Musk, who has publicly supported President Donald Trump and other conservative positions.
CLDC Executive Director Lauren Regan has been hosting virtual training sessions for anti-Tesla activists, offering tactical advice for protests and demonstrations. During these sessions, Regan emphasizes strategic activism while encouraging participants not to be discouraged by possible legal ramifications. The organization was instrumental in organizing the March 29 “Global Day of Action” against Tesla, which featured demonstrations at multiple Tesla locations.
Over the next few days you’re going to see an organized progressional protest effort at Tesla stores put together by a group called Indivisible.
George Soros foundation has given Indivisible nearly $8 million dollars for their "activism".
They’re calling these "Tesla takedown"… pic.twitter.com/ayGTE6Y6yW
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) March 20, 2025
Engaged in Activism
The CLDC’s anti-Tesla activism carries significant baggage in terms of previous affiliations and activities. The organization has represented numerous Antifa members and promotes an ideology that views law enforcement and government officials with suspicion. In 2019, the organization came under fire after one of its volunteers, Charlie Landeros, was killed during an armed confrontation with police at a middle school over custody.
“Time to start killing pigs.” – Charlie Landeros
The FBI had previously flagged Landeros for violent anti-police social media posts, including the statement quoted above. Despite this troubling connection, the CLDC has continued its legal defense work for individuals associated with far-left activism. Among those represented by the group was Alissa Azar, who was convicted of felony riot and disorderly conduct. The organization criticized her sentencing, claiming she was merely a journalist documenting political events rather than a participant.
This is ridiculous. These instigators need more than prosecution. They need immediate incarceration and NO parole. They are traitors https://t.co/17ZhFbkVhY
— Amen Oneill (@oneil_alen) April 14, 2025
Protest strategy and anti-police stance
The CLDC’s approach to activism reveals a concerning viewpoint on law enforcement and the legal system. The organization explicitly advises protesters not to cooperate with police, portraying authorities as political opponents rather than public safety officials. This guidance has raised alarms about the potential for escalation at Tesla-related protests, particularly as reports of altercations have already emerged from some demonstrations.
The organization has collaborated with other progressive organizations, such as Indivisible, to provide “know your rights” training sessions. During these events, the CLDC provides tactical advice on how to deal with police encounters and navigate the legal system while continuing to protest. Regan’s advice to activists emphasizes strategic planning based on the political leanings of various regions, suggesting that protesters adjust their tactics accordingly.
Targeting of American Business
The CLDC’s involvement in anti-Tesla activism highlights a troubling trend of businesses becoming targets based primarily on the political positions of their leadership. Tesla has faced increasing protests not just over labor or environmental concerns, but explicitly due to Musk’s conservative political affiliations and statements. This politicization of commercial enterprises threatens to further polarize American society and potentially impact economic development.
The CLDC’s activism extends beyond Tesla to other politically charged causes. The organization has expressed solidarity with the “Stop Cop City” movement opposing police training facilities in Georgia and has a long history of supporting various left-wing protest movements dating back to its founding after 9/11. As the campaign against Tesla continues to develop, the involvement of groups with explicit political agendas and troubling histories raises legitimate concerns about the true motivations behind these protests.