European commission eyes Elon Musk's AfD promotions on X
The European Commission will examine whether platform X, owned by Elon Musk, will promote an interview with Alice Weidel, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) leader. According to officials, Platform X has the right to stream the conversation, but excessive promotion may violate EU regulations.
The billionaire and owner of platform X, Elon Musk, plans to interview with AfD leader Alice Weidel before the parliamentary elections in Germany, which are scheduled for February 23. Musk, known for supporting right-wing groups, has previously criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, calling him an "incompetent fool," and arguing that the AfD could "save" Germany.
EC spokesperson Thomas Regnier noted that according to the EU Digital Services Act (DSA), online platforms must respond to threats to electoral processes in the EU. The DSA introduces content moderation rules meant to prevent excessive promotion of specific political forces.
Regnier emphasized that freedom of speech is the foundation of the DSA. Mr. Musk has the right to express his private views and political opinions about the EU both online and offline.
Possible consequences for platform X
The European Commission intends to check whether platform X used algorithms to give the interview with Weidel more visibility. If it turns out there was a violation of the DSA, Musk's platform could be fined up to 6% of its global turnover. In extreme cases, the EC could even suspend X's operations in the EU.
Musk's actions, as a close associate of Donald Trump, could affect transatlantic relations. In August 2024, Musk planned an interview with Trump, which elicited a reaction from Digital Market Commissioner Thierry Breton.
Musk has been using platform X for some time to promote right-wing groups in Europe. He praises not only the AfD but also the British Reform Party in the United Kingdom and the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
