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The Musk Effect: Will the X Owner Influence Germany’s Election?

Elon Musk Stirs Controversy in German Politics Ahead of Elections

Tech billionaire Elon Musk’s recent statements supporting the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party have ruffled feathers within the German government, prompting accusations of election interference. Musk’s comments, including a claim that the AfD could "save Germany," have sparked significant backlash from political figures comparing him to authoritarian leaders, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

Musk further intensified the controversy by publishing an op-ed in Welt am Sonntag endorsing the AfD and hosting a live discussion on X with the party’s chancellor candidate, Alice Weidel. The AfD is classified in Germany as an extremist organization, often shunned by mainstream parties due to its links to neo-Nazism. Critics argue that Musk’s comments may help normalize a party typically deemed too extreme for political collaboration, while others suggest his influence might not translate into significant electoral gains.

Recent polling indicates that while the AfD is currently polling over 20%, its support appears stable compared to previous years. Legal experts have raised concerns regarding Musk’s potential influence and his ownership of X, suggesting that his engagement could be viewed as an illegal party donation under German law if it significantly boosts the visibility of AfD content.

Musk’s actions are now under scrutiny by the European Commission amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of platform manipulation that could affect electoral processes. Although Musk’s reach on social media could impact voter opinions, experts caution that the effects of his endorsements on actual voter behavior remain uncertain. The German government is navigating the delicate balance of managing external influence while ensuring democratic integrity, as Musk’s activities highlight the evolving landscape of political discourse in the digital age.

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Photo credit www.euronews.com

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