Elon Musk’s recent criticisms of German leaders and his endorsement of the far-right AfD party have ignited considerable controversy. Chancellor Olaf Scholz maintains a calm response, defending Germany’s democratic integrity and rejecting Musk’s influence. Political leaders across the spectrum have voiced strong disapproval, with calls for increased EU regulation of social media to combat misinformation. Concerns center on Musk’s potential impact on Germany’s democracy and political landscape.
Elon Musk’s recent attacks on prominent German politicians and his endorsement of the AfD have sparked significant controversy. Chancellor Scholz is choosing to respond with composure while cautioning against the potential international consequences.
In response to the personal criticisms from US billionaire Elon Musk, Chancellor Olaf Scholz is maintaining a steady demeanor. He stated, “As Social Democrats, we are accustomed to wealthy media figures who have little regard for social democratic values since the last century – and they freely express their views,” during an interview with Stern.
While the landscape has evolved with media companies and platforms now operating on a global scale, Scholz emphasized that such behavior is not unfamiliar. “One must remain composed,” he added. However, he expressed concern over Musk’s backing of the AfD, a party associated with far-right ideologies that advocates for closer ties with Putin’s Russia and seeks to undermine transatlantic relations.
Germany appears to be an enticing market for Musk, given his recent engagements.
Attacks on Scholz and Steinmeier
The tech entrepreneur has taken to his platform X to criticize German leaders, labeling Scholz a “fool” and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier an “undemocratic tyrant.” Musk’s support for the AfD became even more evident through a contentious guest article featured in Welt am Sonntag. A spokesperson for the AfD has announced that Musk will meet with party leader Alice Weidel for a discussion on X scheduled for January 9.
In response, Scholz defended the integrity of his office: “The Federal President is not an undemocratic tyrant, and Germany stands as a robust and stable democracy. Musk can assert whatever he likes. In our country, decisions are made according to the will of the people, not by the erratic comments of a billionaire from the USA.” He further stated that he has no plans to extend an invitation to Musk at the Chancellery, adding, “I do not intend to seek Mr. Musk’s favor. I leave such matters to others.”
The discourse surrounding Musk’s controversial article has also garnered attention from the chairman of the DJV.
Klingbeil Advocates for Enhanced EU Regulation of X
Scholz recounted a brief encounter with Musk during the inauguration of the Tesla factory in Grünheide near Berlin in March 2022, where local AfD members had protested against the factory’s establishment. Musk later reached out to Scholz regarding Tesla’s opposition to state funding for e-charging stations in Germany.
SPD leader Lars Klingbeil is calling for a more robust EU response to Musk’s activities on X. “There is a pressing need for oversight and a battle against misinformation on social media. We are witnessing a troubling trend at X since Musk’s acquisition. The EU has a duty to enforce regulations,” Klingbeil remarked to the Rheinische Post. He criticized Musk for using his influence to sway opinions and elections, asserting, “The future of Germany holds little significance for him.”
Recently, Musk stirred controversy by suggesting that Chancellor Scholz should resign.
Widespread Criticism from Political Leaders
FDP leader Christian Lindner took a more severe stance, stating, “It cannot be in the best interest of Germany.” He expressed concerns about Musk’s potential motives regarding the AfD, suggesting, “Perhaps he aims to undermine Germany for American interests – supporting a party that could harm us economically and politically isolate us.”
Economics Minister and Green Chancellor candidate Robert Habeck cautioned Musk against meddling in Germany’s electoral process. “Hands off our democracy, Mr. Musk!” Habeck declared to Spiegel. He elaborated on the dangers posed by Musk’s immense wealth, control over information, and the capability to leverage artificial intelligence, branding it a direct threat to democracy.
Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader and chancellor candidate, described Musk’s actions as “overbearing and presumptuous,” noting that he cannot recall a similar instance of interference in the electoral processes of allied nations throughout the history of Western democracies.