Scholz condemns Musk for backing far-right AfD in Germany

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has criticized Elon Musk’s recent endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, calling the billionaire’s behavior "erratic" and his support "problematic."

"In Germany, everything is proceeding according to the wishes of our citizens and not the erratic comments of an American billionaire," Scholz told Stern magazine in an interview published Saturday.

Musk, who owns the social media platform X, has come under fire for his provocative remarks about European leaders. He recently referred to Scholz as an "incompetent fool" and labeled German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier an "anti-democratic tyrant."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has hit back at Elon Musk's support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, as the billionaire continues intervening in German politics. AFP

Scholz dismissed Musk’s insults but expressed concern about his public support for the AfD, which is polling second ahead of Germany’s snap elections on Feb. 23. The far-right party has advocated closer ties with Russia and weakening transatlantic alliances.

"Public support from the ever-more-powerful Musk for the far-right AfD is much more problematic than these insults," Scholz said.

The AfD acknowledged this week it has been in contact with Musk’s team, with the billionaire set to host a discussion on X with AfD leader Alice Weidel on Jan. 9.

Musk has also gotten involved in other European political controversies, including endorsing far-right figures like Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and calling the European Union "undemocratic."

Alice Weidel, co-leader of Germany's far-right AfD party AFP

Experts suggest Musk’s political involvement may align with his business interests. Ilan Kapoor, a professor at York University, said, "Democracy, debate, disagreement, [and] state welfare systems all get in the way of business."

Scholz noted his meeting with Musk in 2022 during the opening of a Tesla factory in Brandenburg, which local AfD leaders protested. However, the chancellor emphasized he has no intention of engaging further with the billionaire.

"I don’t think it necessary to seek Mr. Musk’s favors. I’ll leave that to others," Scholz said.

Germany’s political landscape has become increasingly turbulent as populist movements rise, and Musk’s growing influence in European affairs has drawn widespread scrutiny.