BERLIN — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed that he remains calm in response to the critical remarks from entrepreneur Elon Musk, who recently referred to him as a “fool.” However, Scholz is concerned about Musk’s involvement in German politics, particularly his support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. This follows Musk’s endorsement of the party in an opinion piece published in a prominent German newspaper, shortly after Scholz’s coalition government fell apart in November.
In comments shared with the German magazine Stern, Scholz, representing the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), noted that there is nothing surprising about criticism from wealthy media figures who do not support social democratic principles. “You have to stay cool,” he stated, emphasizing the need for composure amid personal attacks.
Scholz pointed out that he finds it more concerning that Musk will support the AfD, a party under close surveillance by Germany’s domestic intelligence service due to suspicions of right-wing extremism. The party promotes ideas that include improving relations with Russia and undermining transatlantic ties, which scholarly views as particularly troubling.
In light of the recent political turmoil, with Germany gearing up for an early parliamentary election on February 23 after the breakdown of Scholz’s coalition over economic revitalization debates, the vice chancellor and economy minister, Robert Habeck, also weighed in. He criticized Musk’s interference in German democracy, stating, “Hands off our democracy, Mr. Musk!” in an interview with Spiegel magazine.
Habeck expressed that the combination of Musk’s vast wealth, influence over information networks, and the use of artificial intelligence presents direct risks to democracy. He is a candidate for chancellor from the Green Party. This criticism comes after Musk’s controversial support for the AfD led to the resignation of Eva Marie Kogel, the opinion editor of the newspaper that published Musk’s piece.
In his translated commentary, Musk labeled the AfD as the “last spark of hope for this country.” He also seemingly claimed a stake in commenting on Germany’s political landscape, citing his investments in the nation. Currently, the AfD is performing well in polls; however, its leader, Alice Weidel, lacks a viable path to the chancellorship as other parties have expressed a refusal to collaborate with the far-right faction.