Chancellor Scholz and others criticize Musk's recent attacks and support for the far-right AfD party in Germany.
Elon Musk Faces European Backlash Amid Political Interference Claims
Elon Musk Faces European Backlash Amid Political Interference Claims
European leaders voice their concerns over Musk’s social media influence in domestic politics.
In a growing controversy, several European leaders have rebuked tech mogul Elon Musk for his interference in domestic politics through social media. Among the most vocal critics is Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has faced ridicule from Musk on X, where he referred to Scholz as an "incompetent fool" and called for his resignation. This backlash comes as Musk prepares to host Alice Weidel, the leader of Germany’s far-right party AfD, for a lengthy discussion later this week, raising alarms about political meddling as elections approach on February 23.
In the wake of Musk's provocative comments, Scholz advised his colleagues to refrain from engaging with Musk, quipping, "Don't feed the troll." However, the looming elections have made it difficult for many German politicians to ignore him. Notably, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his disbelief at Musk's influence, saying, “Ten years ago, who would have believed it...that the owner of one of the biggest social networks in the world would support a new, international reactionary movement?”
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre echoed similar sentiments, urging caution given Musk's significant reach and resources. Spain's government spokeswoman Pilar Alegría called for social media platforms like X to maintain neutrality in political matters.
Musk's controversial posts have included comments on crime statistics in various European countries and accusations related to immigration in Germany, sparking outrage from leaders like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who criticized the spread of misinformation. While Musk has garnered some support from leaders like Italy's Giorgia Meloni, who praises him as a "genius," the backlash remains focused on his influence in Germany.
Complicating the matter, Musk has recently indicated potential business dealings with the Italian government regarding advanced telecommunications services through SpaceX's Starlink. Critics within Italy have raised alarms about granting such sensitive contracts to Musk while he appears to back far-right movements. The political ramifications of Musk's interventions are still unfolding as leaders across Europe grapple with his increasing involvement in their national affairs.
In the wake of Musk's provocative comments, Scholz advised his colleagues to refrain from engaging with Musk, quipping, "Don't feed the troll." However, the looming elections have made it difficult for many German politicians to ignore him. Notably, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his disbelief at Musk's influence, saying, “Ten years ago, who would have believed it...that the owner of one of the biggest social networks in the world would support a new, international reactionary movement?”
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre echoed similar sentiments, urging caution given Musk's significant reach and resources. Spain's government spokeswoman Pilar Alegría called for social media platforms like X to maintain neutrality in political matters.
Musk's controversial posts have included comments on crime statistics in various European countries and accusations related to immigration in Germany, sparking outrage from leaders like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who criticized the spread of misinformation. While Musk has garnered some support from leaders like Italy's Giorgia Meloni, who praises him as a "genius," the backlash remains focused on his influence in Germany.
Complicating the matter, Musk has recently indicated potential business dealings with the Italian government regarding advanced telecommunications services through SpaceX's Starlink. Critics within Italy have raised alarms about granting such sensitive contracts to Musk while he appears to back far-right movements. The political ramifications of Musk's interventions are still unfolding as leaders across Europe grapple with his increasing involvement in their national affairs.
