Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and upcoming US administration figure, has drawn international criticism after endorsing Germany’s far-right political party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), amidst the country’s ongoing political turmoil.
On Friday, Musk posted on his social media platform X, “Only the AfD can save Germany,” while sharing a video from far-right activist Naomi Seibt. This comes weeks before Germany’s snap elections, triggered by the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government.
The AfD, known for its anti-immigrant and populist stance, is currently polling in second place but has faced accusations of promoting extremist ideologies.
Musk’s influence
Musk’s public backing of the AfD included praise for its immigration policies, calling them “reasonable.” He also followed AfD leader Alice Weidel on X, who expressed gratitude and described the AfD as Germany’s “last option.”
Musk further criticised Scholz as an “incompetent fool” following a deadly car attack in Magdeburg, intensifying political debates.
The German government issued a muted response, emphasizing freedom of speech while dismissing Musk’s remarks as lacking “good political advice.” However, Health Minister Karl Lauterbach called Musk’s actions “undignified and problematic,” accusing him of potential election interference.
Musk’s endorsement of far-right causes isn’t limited to Germany. He has previously supported anti-immigration movements in the UK and Italy and praised Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei.
AfD’s rise
The AfD has gained traction with its “Germany first” platform, appealing to voters dissatisfied with traditional parties.
However, the party remains controversial, with elements classified as extremist by German intelligence. It recently became the first far-right party to win a state election since the Nazi era, but mainstream parties refuse to collaborate with it at the federal level.
(With inputs from CNN, The Guardian)
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