Thu Jan 09 20:59:51 UTC 2025: ## Musk’s Endorsement of German Far-Right Party Sparks Transatlantic Debate

**BERLIN/ROME** – Elon Musk’s outspoken support for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has ignited a firestorm of controversy across Europe. The Tesla CEO and X owner live-streamed a conversation with AfD chancellor candidate Alice Weidel, urging German voters to support the party, claiming only the AfD can “save Germany.” This endorsement, echoing previous statements on X and in Welt am Sonntag, has drawn sharp criticism from European leaders.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez indirectly accused Musk of undermining democracy, while France’s foreign minister called for stronger EU action against external interference in national elections. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, leader of the far-right Brothers of Italy party, defended Musk, stating she sees “no danger to democracy” in his actions. This stance is notable given her government’s consideration of a communications security contract with Musk’s SpaceX, a deal facing opposition due to concerns about entrusting sensitive information to a company associated with Musk’s controversial political views.

Musk and Weidel’s discussion focused on criticisms of Germany’s energy policy, bureaucracy, and immigration policies. Musk described German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier as a “tyrant” for criticizing the AfD and called for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s resignation. The conversation garnered over 190,000 views on X. The starkly contrasting reactions from European leaders highlight the deep divisions Musk’s political involvement has created, raising questions about the intersection of global business influence and national politics.

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