Elon Musk’s far-right endorsements raise alarms in Europe
Billionaire and Trump ally Elon Musk has sparked widespread concern in Europe by openly endorsing far-right parties and leaders. His growing political influence is raising pressing questions about its potential impact on democratic values and institutions.
Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has recently drawn criticism for his increasing involvement in European politics. His latest endorsement of the far-right German party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has added fuel to the debate over his intentions and the implications of his growing political clout.
“Only the AfD can save Germany”, Musk declared on his social media platform X, following a tragic incident at a Christmas market where a car attack left five dead and over 200 injured. Musk’s comment comes as Germany, facing political turmoil, prepares for snap elections in February.
The AfD, a nationalist-populist party under surveillance by German intelligence for its extremist views, swiftly embraced Musk’s support. Party leader Alice Weidel thanked him in a video, calling the AfD “the last option” for Germany. Meanwhile, mainstream politicians, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats and the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), condemned Musk’s remarks as interference in German democracy.
European strategy
Musk’s foray into German politics follows his meeting with British far-right leader Nigel Farage, during which Farage revealed Musk’s potential financial support for his Reform UK party. Farage, a staunch eurosceptic and Trump ally, claimed Musk is exploring ways to donate through his UK-based businesses. That way, the billionaire could circumvent restrictions on foreign political contributions. Reports suggest Musk could donate up to $100 million.
Musk has also forged ties with Italy’s far-right government, meeting multiple times with prime minister Giorgia Meloni since her Brothers of Italy party came to power in 2022. His interactions have raised concerns among Italian lawmakers, particularly regarding potential influence in areas where Musk has significant economic interests. Meloni defended their relationship during a recent parliamentary debate, dismissing accusations of undue influence.
Libertarian vision or political meddling?
As Musk’s political agenda stretches beyond the United States, questions arise about his ultimate goals. Is he seeking to shape global governance around his libertarian ideals, or is he leveraging his wealth and platform to indulge in unchecked power?
While some warn that Musk’s far-right affiliations could destabilise European democracies, the immediate concern lies in the broader impact of his financial and cultural influence on democratic institutions. His endorsements carry more weight than just a billionaire’s opinion: they reflect the power of his global reach to validate fringe movements and disrupt political stability.
One thing is clear: Europe, like the United States, will have to reckon with Musk’s growing presence on the political stage. For now, European leaders are left grappling with the implications of his interventions and how to safeguard their democracies from his influence.
(JPO)
Elon Musk Allison © ROBBERT / POOL / AFP