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Top German government officials have accused Elon Musk of attempting to interfere in the country’s upcoming elections by endorsing the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party through an op-ed and social media posts.
Some shit you should know before you read: The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is labeled as a “far-right” political party known for its nationalist and populist stance, often described by critics as promoting anti-immigration policies and harboring elements of “right-wing extremism.” Germany’s domestic intelligence agency monitors parts of the party on suspicion of “extremist“ activities, and its youth wing has been designated as a “confirmed extremist“ group. However, supporters argue that the AfD represents a voice for economic reform and cultural preservation, challenging the status quo of Germany’s mainstream political establishment. Earlier this month, Elon Musk endorsed the AfD, praising their stances on deregulation, tax reduction, and promoting a business-friendly environment. He dismissed accusations of extremism as “exaggerated.“
What’s going on now: In response to Musk’s endorsement, Christiane Hoffmann, a spokeswoman for the German government, accused him of attempting to influence the upcoming parliamentary elections. She said, “It is indeed the case that Elon Musk is trying to influence the federal election.” Hoffmann also acknowledged his right to freedom of opinion but dismissed his remarks as “nonsense.“ Health Minister Karl Lauterbach criticized Musk’s involvement as “undignified and highly problematic,“ while Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of the Social Democrats, compared Musk’s actions to those of Vladimir Putin, accusing both of trying to destabilize Germany. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz called Musk’s comments “intrusive and pretentious,“ reflecting broad disapproval across Germany’s political spectrum.
To the contrary, Alice Weidel, co-leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), has embraced Elon Musk’s endorsement, arguing that it shows the party’s commitment to economic reform and innovation. She has also pushed back against accusations of extremism, citing her own same-sex partnership as evidence of the party’s diversity and misrepresentation by critics.
This all comes as Germany prepares for snap parliamentary elections on February 23, following the collapse of the coalition government led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Recent polling indicates a tight race, with the far-right AfD in second place behind the main opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU).
