Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and ally of Donald Trump, has been accused of attempting to sway Germany’s federal election by endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. His comments, published in a guest opinion piece for the Welt am Sonntag newspaper, have ignited political controversy and led to the resignation of the newspaper’s comment editor in protest.
The German government criticised Musk’s actions, with a spokesperson stating, “It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election.” They added that while Musk is entitled to his opinions, his endorsement of the AfD constitutes “a recommendation to vote for a party that is being monitored by domestic intelligence on suspicion of being right-wing extremist.”
Musk defended his position, citing his “significant investments” in Germany and his approval of the AfD’s policies on deregulation, taxes, and market liberalisation. He referred to the AfD as Germany’s “last hope” amidst political instability following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government.
The controversy has erupted as Germany prepares for a parliamentary election on 23 February. The AfD, currently polling in second place behind the opposition conservatives, could play a pivotal role in disrupting any centre-right or centre-left majority. Mainstream parties have pledged to avoid collaboration with the AfD at the national level.
Criticism across Europe
Musk’s intervention has not been limited to Germany. He recently waded into UK politics, attacking Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and the new government’s immigration policies. Musk warned that Britain was heading for “civil war” due to its border policies, sparking further backlash.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has revealed that Musk is in discussions about potential funding for the party. This aligns with Musk’s broader political activity, including his alignment with Trump’s administration in the United States.
Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s opposition Christian Democrats and a frontrunner to succeed Scholz as Chancellor, labelled Musk’s comments as “intrusive and pretentious.” The controversy has added complexity to an already fraught political climate in Germany, with mainstream leaders scrambling to maintain voter confidence.
US ties and H-1B visa controversy
Musk’s influence extends beyond Europe, as demonstrated by his recent clash with US immigration hard-liners over the H-1B visa programme. Musk, a naturalised US citizen originally from South Africa, has strongly defended the programme, which allows foreign tech workers to work in the United States.
Following his social media posts supporting the visa, Trump publicly backed Musk, stating his full support for the programme, despite opposition from some within his own party. Musk’s company, Tesla, secured 724 H-1B visas this year, highlighting his vested interest in the programme.
Democrats have mockingly dubbed Musk “President Musk,” referencing his growing influence as Trump prepares to take office on 20 January.
Backlash and broader implications
Musk’s endorsement of the AfD has triggered widespread condemnation. In Berlin, the government spokesperson stressed the dangers of supporting a party under investigation for right-wing extremist ties. “Freedom of opinion also covers the greatest nonsense,” the spokesperson quipped, underscoring the gravity of Musk’s remarks.
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No. 10 Downing Street also responded after Musk criticised the UK government’s policies as being unfavourable for business. A spokesperson reiterated the government’s “unashamedly pro-growth and pro-business approach,” challenging Musk’s assertion that the UK was an unattractive destination for corporate investment.
Despite the criticism, Musk continues to defend his actions, positioning himself as a champion of free speech and economic liberalisation. However, his increasingly controversial political interventions have raised questions about the ethical responsibilities of influential billionaires in democratic processes.
A polarising figure
With the AfD gaining traction in German polls and tensions rising across Europe, Musk’s endorsement has heightened concerns about external interference in elections. As Germany approaches a critical political juncture, Musk’s actions underline the challenges posed by global figures wielding significant influence in national politics.
For many, Musk’s involvement represents an unwelcome intrusion. For others, it is a bold exercise of his right to voice his opinions. Regardless, his statements have thrust him into the heart of a contentious debate over democracy, extremism, and the role of corporate leaders in shaping political outcomes.
