Janice R. Andrews
The European Commission is expanding its ongoing probe into the platform X, focusing on the upcoming live interview between Elon Musk and Alice Weidel, the leader of Germany’s far-right AfD party. The conversation, scheduled for Thursday, is part of an investigation into whether it violates the Digital Services Act (DSA).
The Commission initiated formal proceedings into X’s adherence to the DSA in December 2023, examining potential violations in areas like civic discourse. This investigation is still ongoing.
Musk’s recent public support for the AfD, including a controversial op-ed in a German newspaper, has raised concerns, with German officials accusing him of attempting to influence the February 23 federal election.
A spokesperson for the European Commission clarified that while the DSA doesn’t prohibit platforms from hosting live streams or expressing opinions, the investigation will focus on whether X complies with the legal boundaries set by the DSA and evaluates associated risks.
In light of the upcoming election, the Commission, together with Germany’s Digital Services Coordinator and representatives from major platforms like X, will hold a roundtable on January 24 to discuss risks related to disinformation and election interference.
Thierry Breton, former EU internal market chief, has weighed in on the matter, claiming the live interview could give Weidel an unfair advantage in the election campaign. Although no longer part of the Commission, Breton urged Musk to fully comply with EU regulations, referencing previous conflicts over compliance when Musk hosted a live interview with Donald Trump last year.
Musk’s interactions with X continue to raise concerns within the EU, especially after he reportedly invested $200 million in Trump’s re-election campaign. Musk is also expected to take on an advisory role in a potential Trump administration.
As the EU Commission continues to scrutinize digital platforms, Musk’s actions are under increasing investigation for their potential impact on democratic processes. The ongoing probe will assess whether X’s operations and risk management align with EU laws.
Stay updated as this story develops.
