Elon Musk, known for his ventures in Tesla and SpaceX, has recently shifted his focus to European politics, causing alarm among politicians across the continent. Musk's endorsements of far-right figures and parties, along with his inflammatory social media posts, have sparked controversy and concern.
In Germany, Musk has openly supported the far-right Alternative for Germany party, drawing criticism due to the party's suspected extremism. His involvement in German politics, including a planned live chat with an AfD co-leader, has raised questions about foreign interference.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis, have expressed worries about the influence of tech billionaires like Musk on democratic institutions. Macron highlighted the risks of unchecked power wielded by individuals like Musk in shaping election outcomes.
In the United Kingdom, Musk has targeted Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing him of complicity in cases of child sexual abuse. These accusations have stirred controversy and prompted responses from political figures, with calls for tighter regulations on foreign interference in British politics.
Musk's platform, X, is under scrutiny by European authorities for its content, with investigations ongoing to address issues of hatred and disinformation. The European Union has initiated proceedings against X under the Digital Services Act, particularly focusing on Musk's interactions with far-right figures during sensitive pre-election periods.
Despite Musk's self-proclaimed advocacy for free speech, his political interventions have faced criticism and scrutiny. The impact of his social media posts on public opinion and Tesla's business prospects in Europe remains uncertain, with concerns about potential backlash from consumers who disagree with his political views.
As Musk continues to engage in European politics, observers note the risks associated with his outspokenness and the potential consequences for his business interests. While some see parallels with his successful support for Donald Trump in the U.S., others caution about the challenges and uncertainties of his political forays in Europe.
