Elon Musk's AfD chat draws heat ahead of German elections
Elon Musk, the owner of the X platform, plans to have a conversation with Alice Weidel, the leader of the far-right AfD party, before the upcoming parliamentary elections in Germany. This decision has been criticized by German politicians, who accuse Musk of interfering in the electoral process.
Alice Weidel's spokesperson, Daniel Tapp, confirmed that the conversation will be broadcast live on the X platform. Although the exact date has not been set, it is known that it will take place before the elections. In mid-December, Musk expressed his support for the AfD, stating that "only the AfD can save Germany." Additionally, in one of his posts, he insulted Chancellor Olaf Scholz, calling him "incompetent".
Reactions from German politicians
Politicians from mainstream parties expressed outrage, accusing Musk of attempting to influence the election outcome. A source speaking to "Politico" suggested that support for the AfD might be part of a broader strategy related to Musk's close relationship with the U.S. president-elect, Donald Trump. A spokesperson for the German government limited their comments to accusing the billionaire of "trying to influence the federal election."
It is unclear whether Musk's support will affect the election outcome, which, according to polls, is expected to be won by the CDU. However, questions arise about future cooperation between Trump and the German government, which will be dominated by the conservative party. It's worth remembering that during his first term, Trump did not hide his dislike for Germany and then-Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz, in his New Year's address, urged citizens not to succumb to external influences during the elections, emphasizing that it is the citizens, not social media owners, who decide the country's future. The early Bundestag elections are scheduled for February 23.
