Elon Musk voices support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the country’s February vote, according to a new report from Bloomberg.
Key Facts:
• Musk reiterated his backing of the AfD in an opinion piece in a respected German newspaper.
• He called the party “political realism” that speaks to ignored concerns.
• The AfD is running on anti-immigration and pro-German sovereignty ideas.
• Polls show the AfD at 19%, trailing only the conservative CDU/CSU bloc at 31%.
The Rest of The Story:
Musk’s comments appeared in a respected German newspaper, where he argued the AfD addresses everyday problems more directly than mainstream parties.
He suggested that many voters feel left behind by traditional leaders, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats, who lag in the polls.
The AfD has been monitored by German intelligence agencies in parts of the country for alleged extremism.
Yet the party has gained traction by questioning EU membership and advocating stricter immigration policies. Further critics claim AfD is being unfairly targeted by German authorities.
Only AfD can save Germany https://t.co/8TNZVEZGh5
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 22, 2024
Commentary:
Musk’s defense of the AfD offers a counterpoint to the widespread branding of the party as “far-right.”
Supporting policies that prioritize German culture and the rule of law does not necessarily indicate extremism, especially when many in Germany worry about preserving their national identity.
Immigration into German has led to a dramatic increase in crime and many in that country are rightly concerned about it.
The Bottom Line:
Musk’s stance has added fuel to an already heated campaign, and it may positively influence voter perceptions of the AfD’s platform.
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How Germans respond could shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.