Elon Musk Interviews German Far-Right Leader Alice Weidel, Sparking Controversy

In a highly anticipated and controversial move, Elon Musk hosted a 74-minute live chat with Alice Weidel, the co-leader of Germany's far-right party, Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), on his social media platform, X, on January 9, 2025. The conversation, which covered a range of topics from energy policy and German bureaucracy to Adolf Hitler and the meaning of life, has generated significant debate, especially in the context of Germany’s upcoming snap election.

A Bold Political Move

Elon Musk's interview with Weidel marks a new chapter in his involvement with European politics. The world’s wealthiest man unequivocally endorsed the AfD and urged German citizens to support the party in the forthcoming federal elections. This endorsement has added fuel to the ongoing accusations that Musk is attempting to meddle in German politics, especially given his influence as a global tech mogul.

While the interview, conducted in English, was presented as a discussion on political and social issues, it also served as a platform for the AfD to reach an international audience through Musk’s massive social media following. Weidel, knowing of Musk’s close relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump, also took the opportunity to express her support for Trump and his team.

AfD's Position in German Politics

The AfD, which has been a divisive force in German politics, is currently polling second in the upcoming federal election scheduled for February 23, 2025. However, despite its growing popularity, the party is unlikely to form a government, as other major political parties have refused to work with it due to its far-right stance.

Weidel, in the interview, sought to frame her party as "conservative" and "libertarian," distancing the AfD from accusations of extremism. However, sections of the AfD have been officially classified as right-wing extremist by German authorities, and some of its members have been linked to far-right movements and controversial statements.

Controversial Statements and the Hitler Debate

During the conversation, Weidel made some particularly controversial statements, including her claim that Adolf Hitler was a "communist" and an "antisemitic socialist," despite the historical consensus that Hitler led a fascist, nationalist movement. Her remarks about Hitler were met with widespread criticism and disbelief, with many questioning her understanding of history.

The conversation also touched on other political and social topics, such as Germany's bureaucratic inefficiency, the country's decision to phase out nuclear power, the need for tax cuts, and the concept of "wokeness." Musk and Weidel shared moments of humor as they discussed these issues, with Musk at one point offering a candid response to Weidel’s question about his belief in God, stating that he is open to the idea as part of his broader quest to understand the universe.

Musk's Political Influence and the AfD's Position

Musk’s intervention in Germany’s political landscape, particularly his praise of Weidel as the "leading candidate to run Germany," has further cemented his position as a polarizing figure in global politics. Musk justified his political support by pointing to his significant business interests in Germany, notably the massive Tesla plant near Berlin.

Musk has previously dismissed the AfD's far-right classification, and has been vocal in criticizing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, calling him a "fool" in the past. Scholz, who faces a challenging path to re-election, downplayed Musk's remarks, stating that he remains "cool" under pressure.

Looking Ahead: A Divided German Election

As Germany prepares for its federal election in February, the endorsement of AfD by a global figure like Elon Musk is likely to keep the party in the spotlight, regardless of its controversial policies. While the AfD has significant support, especially among certain conservative and libertarian factions, the broader German political establishment remains largely opposed to the party’s far-right agenda.

The question remains whether Musk’s political interference will have a lasting impact on the outcome of the election or if the divided nature of German politics will keep the AfD from gaining significant power. What is clear is that Musk’s involvement in European politics is far from over, and his next steps will continue to stir both support and outrage across the continent.