Elon Musk’s social media presence has become a contentious issue in European politics, particularly for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has faced direct criticisms from the tech billionaire. Musk, owner of a significant social media platform, called Scholz an “incompetent fool” and urged him to resign. This Thursday, Musk is set to host a discussion with Alice Weidel, the leader of the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, raising concerns of political interference as the party ranks second in polls ahead of Germany’s federal elections on February 23.
Chancellor Scholz has advised his counterparts to remain composed in the face of Musk’s provocations, telling them, “Don’t feed the troll.”
While some European leaders, like Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, have aligned with Musk, many others express concern over his interferences in domestic politics, especially with his intentions to advise incoming US President Donald Trump. In a striking 24-hour period, four European governments publicly opposed Musk’s recent posts. French President Emmanuel Macron questioned the implications of a major social media owner’s involvement in shaping an international political movement during a press statement.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store echoed this sentiment, labeling Musk’s actions as “worrying,” given his significant influence on social platforms. Spain’s government spokeswoman called for digital neutrality, emphasizing that platforms should avoid political interference. Musk’s critiques of crime rates in Norway and Spain, alongside his controversial comments surrounding immigration in Germany, have further aggravated the situation.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded to Musk’s attacks on his administration in the context of child exploitation by criticizing those spreading misinformation, without naming Musk directly. Notably, Italy and Hungary stand apart in their supportive stance toward Musk. Prime Minister Meloni has praised him as an “extraordinary innovator,” while Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban shares Musk’s critical views on liberal philanthropy.
However, Musk’s increasing visibility in German politics is most troubling to many, especially with imminent elections approaching. He has expressed his support for the AfD multiple times, even describing the party as “the last spark of hope” for Germany. Musk defends his engagement by highlighting Tesla’s substantial investments in the country while contending that labeling the AfD as extremist is misleading due to its leadership’s diverse backgrounds.
Despite growing public concern, reactions have varied within Germany. While Scholz attempts to maintain focus on governance, Green Party candidate Robert Habeck has delivered a more direct critique: “Hands off our democracy, Mr. Musk.”
Liberal FDP leader Christian Lindner suggested that Musk’s motives may include weakening Germany’s position for US interests by promoting economic harm through the AfD. Thierry Breton, former head of the European Commission’s digital agenda, warned that Musk’s upcoming livestream could provide Weidel with unintended advantages in the election campaign.
Despite no existing EU rules prohibiting such interactions, a spokesperson from the European Commission cautioned that preferential treatment on social media platforms could be scrutinized; Musk’s platform is already under investigation in this context. Meanwhile, Musk’s business endeavors in Italy are also stirring debate as reports suggest negotiations for a substantial contract with the Italian government regarding encrypted internet services. Critics have expressed concerns over trusting such crucial telecommunications to Musk while he engages with the European far-right and spreads disinformation.
