Elon Musk Addresses AfD Event in Eastern Germany, Supports Far-Right Party
Musk makes second appearance in support of Germany's AfD, emphasizing cultural preservation and critiquing historical guilt.
Elon Musk made an unexpected appearance via video link at the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) election campaign event in Halle, Eastern Germany, on Saturday.
This marks the second time in two weeks that the prominent U.S. entrepreneur has voiced support for the far-right party.
Musk addressed an audience of approximately 4,500 people, alongside AfD co-leader Alice Weidel, discussing topics such as the preservation of German culture and national identity.
During his speech, Musk emphasized the importance of maintaining German cultural values, expressing concerns over what he termed 'multiculturalism that dilutes everything.' This followed his recent controversial gesture that elicited online comparisons to a Nazi salute at a previous event.
He further commented on Germany's historical narrative, asserting that children should not bear the guilt of their ancestors' actions: 'There is too much focus on past guilt, and we need to move beyond that.'
Musk has been vocal about his views on freedom of speech, previously critiquing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on the social media platform, X. In contrast, Chancellor Scholz stated his opposition to using freedom of speech to propagate extreme-right ideologies.
Musk endorsed the AfD, expressing enthusiasm for what he described as Germany's 'best hope' for the future.
Alice Weidel reciprocated by praising the GOP's efforts in the United States and encouraging Germans to follow suit.
The event occurred amid widespread anti-far-right demonstrations across Germany, with significant gatherings reported.
Approximately 100,000 individuals rallied in Berlin's Brandenburg Gate area, while up to 20,000 congregated in Cologne, undeterred by the winter conditions.
Demonstrators ranged in age and carried vibrant umbrellas as a symbol of protest against the far-right ideology.