Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is set to host a live-streamed chat on his platform X with Alice Weidel, co-leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, ahead of the country’s February 23 national election. Scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. Germany time, the event has sparked widespread concern across Europe over Musk’s growing political influence.
Musk’s endorsement of AfD, which he described as Germany’s only hope for salvation, has drawn sharp criticism. In a December 20 post on X, Musk accused Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left government of leading Germany toward “economic and cultural collapse.” He further elaborated in an op-ed for Welt am Sonntag, backing the AfD’s hardline positions as the party gains momentum in German politics.
The AfD, founded in 2013, initially opposed eurozone bailouts but shifted focus to immigration and cultural issues after opposing Angela Merkel’s refugee policies in 2015. Recent polls show the AfD as Germany’s second-most popular party, with 20% support, though mainstream Christian Democrats currently lead with 31%.
Musk’s involvement in global politics has raised alarms beyond Germany. In the UK, he has demanded the release of anti-Islam activist Tommy Robinson and called Prime Minister Keir Starmer a “tyrant.” Similar concerns have surfaced in Poland, where Musk’s influence could extend to the upcoming presidential election in May.
The European Commission is closely monitoring Musk’s platform for compliance with the Digital Services Act, which regulates social media to prevent the spread of hate speech and election-related misinformation. Preliminary findings last year indicated that X violated the act’s transparency and accountability standards, including the misuse of verification badges. The commission continues to investigate the platform for other potential breaches.
Musk’s endorsement of AfD and hosting of Weidel highlights his growing role in amplifying far-right movements globally. Critics argue that his actions could normalize extremist rhetoric and destabilize political discourse. With AfD’s rise reflecting a broader shift in European politics, the billionaire’s political interventions are drawing heightened scrutiny from governments and regulators alike.
As Germany’s election approaches, Musk’s involvement has underscored growing tensions over free speech, platform accountability, and the influence of powerful tech figures in shaping political narratives.