Janice R. Andrews
Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, has caused a stir in Germany with his recent op-ed in Welt am Sonntag, where he openly supported the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. His remarks, published just weeks before the country’s snap federal election, have drawn strong reactions from politicians and media figures alike.
Musk Calls AfD Germany’s “Last Hope”
In his commentary, Musk referred to the AfD as Germany’s “last spark of hope,” rejecting the idea that the party is extremist. He defended the party’s leader, Alice Weidel, pointing to her same-sex relationship with a Sri Lankan partner as evidence against claims of the AfD being aligned with Nazi ideologies.
Musk argued that the AfD’s stances on economic issues, energy policies, and immigration are grounded in “political realism” and resonate with many Germans who feel overlooked by the political establishment. He further emphasized that the AfD’s policies were not xenophobic but aimed at preserving Germany’s cultural identity in the face of globalization.
Backlash from German Politicians and Media
Musk’s support for the AfD has triggered anger across Germany. Eva Marie Kogel, the editor of the Welt am Sonntag opinion section, resigned shortly after the piece was published, citing ethical concerns. Jan Philipp Burgard, the paper’s incoming editor-in-chief, contradicted Musk’s views in a separate op-ed, calling his solution “fundamentally wrong” despite acknowledging some of his critiques.
German lawmakers, including Jens Spahn of the center-right CDU party, also condemned Musk’s comments. On X (formerly Twitter), Spahn accused Musk of interfering in German politics and highlighted the AfD’s controversial policies, including its desire to leave NATO and oppose the Eurozone.
Upcoming Snap Election Fuels Tensions
Germany is preparing for a snap federal election on February 23, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government. The AfD is currently polling second with around 19% support, trailing the CDU/CSU alliance, which leads with over 30%. However, mainstream political parties have ruled out any collaboration with the AfD at the national level due to its extreme positions.
Musk’s Timing Under Scrutiny
The timing of Musk’s op-ed has raised concerns, with critics suggesting that it could influence the electorate in the days leading up to the election. Musk’s backing of the AfD has added another layer of complexity to the already tense political climate in Germany, where debates over economic recovery and energy policy are at the forefront.
Journalists Express Dissent
Several journalists at Welt have publicly voiced their opposition to Musk’s statements. Their criticisms on X highlight the internal division within the newspaper and the wider societal impact of Musk’s remarks.
AfD’s Polarizing Role in German Politics
The AfD has been a controversial figure in German politics for years. In 2021, Germany’s domestic intelligence agency classified the party as a suspected extremist organization. Its policies on immigration, the European Union, and NATO have made it a divisive force within the country.
Despite its polarizing nature, the AfD has gained support, particularly from voters disillusioned with traditional parties and economic challenges.
The Impact on Germany’s Political Landscape
Musk’s comments have the potential to fuel support for the AfD while deepening divisions with mainstream political figures. His involvement in German politics, though outside his usual realm of technology and business, raises questions about the influence of high-profile figures on political discourse.
As the February election approaches, Musk’s endorsement of the AfD is likely to remain a point of contention, further intensifying the debates within Germany’s political landscape.
