Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has ignited a major controversy in Germany by publicly endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, just ahead of crucial parliamentary elections. This endorsement, published in a German newspaper, has prompted a strong backlash, including the resignation of the publication's opinion editor. The situation has ignited a debate on free speech and political influence.
Musk's opinion piece, featured in Welt am Sonntag, a sister publication of POLITICO, marks his second endorsement of the AfD this month. He stated that the AfD represents "the last spark of hope" for Germany and praised their potential to lead the nation towards economic prosperity, cultural integrity, and technological advancement. He further justified his commentary, citing his investments in the country.
These comments come at a sensitive time in German politics as the country prepares for snap elections on February 23. The current coalition government collapsed due to disputes over economic revitalization, creating an uncertain political landscape. While the AfD is gaining traction in polls, its leader faces challenges in forming a governing coalition due to other parties' refusal to collaborate with them.
Musk's piece drew criticism for attempting to downplay the AfD's far-right image, pointing out the same-sex partner of the party's leader, Alice Weidel, to argue against labels of extremism. However, the endorsement prompted Eva Marie Kogel, the opinion editor of the newspaper, to resign in protest, publicly announcing her decision on Musk’s social media platform, X.
The controversy has sparked a national debate on free speech and the role of opinion pieces. Jan Philipp Burgard, the incoming editor-in-chief, published a critical piece alongside Musk's, acknowledging the country’s issues but stating the AfD is not the solution. The current and future editors of the Welt group released a joint statement, asserting the importance of free expression in democracy and journalism. They aim to position the newspaper as a forum for such critical debates in the future.
