Musk's comments come at a crucial time in German politics. Early elections are scheduled for February, with Scholz running against Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Alice Weidel of the AfD.
Elon Musk, the American billionaire and owner of Tesla, SpaceX and the social media platform X, has sharply criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Musk responded on social media to the deadly attack with a car at the Christmas market in Magdeburg, killing a nine-year-old child and four adults. The billionaire accused Scholz of failed leadership and called him an “incompetent fool” who should resign.
The attack in Magdeburg, which injured more than 200 people, has left Germany in shock. The suspect, a 50-year-old doctor of Saudi Arabian descent, is charged with murder, attempted murder and assault. The perpetrator allegedly deliberately drove his vehicle into people. The tragic incident has led to heated discussions about security and migration policy in Germany.
Musk's statements
Musk, who is known for his controversial statements on social media, not only lashed out at Scholz, but also entered the political discussion by openly supporting the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party. In a post on X, Musk wrote: “Only the AfD can save Germany.” The comments did not sit well with Germany’s political establishment, which has long been concerned about the AfD’s growing popularity.
Several German media outlets reported that the suspect in the attack had ties to the AfD, further complicating the situation. Although these connections have not yet been fully confirmed, they have further fueled the political debate.
response from Scholz
Chancellor Scholz responded immediately to Musk's statements. "We have freedom of speech, and that also applies to billionaires," Scholz said at a press conference. "But freedom of speech also means that you can say things that are not true and are not good political advice."
The Social Democratic Party (SPD), of which Scholz is a member, went a step further. Dirk Wiese, deputy leader of the SPD in the Bundestag, called Musk's remarks "provocative" and called for stricter regulations to limit the influence of billionaires like Musk. Wiese called for a modern version of the US Sherman Antitrust Act to tackle the market dominance of Musk's companies.
This isn’t Musk’s first time getting caught up in political controversy. His companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, are regularly criticized for their influence and market dominance. While Musk profiles himself as a champion of free speech and innovation, his direct involvement in international politics remains a polarizing topic.
Scholz responded strongly to Musk's statements, underlining the importance of freedom of speech, but noting that this does not mean that all statements are politically valuable. "We have freedom of speech, and that also applies to billionaires. But freedom of speech also means that you can say things that are not true and are not good political advice," the chancellor said.
The criticism of Scholz comes at a critical time for his government. Germany is gearing up for early elections in February, while pressure mounts on the coalition of the SPD, Greens and FDP. Polls show Scholz's party lagging behind both the CDU/CSU and the AfD.
Recent violent incidents, such as the stabbing in Solingen in August that left three people dead, have increased public discontent over the security situation and migration policy. Political opponents accuse Scholz and his government of inaction, boosting the popularity of far-flung parties such as the AfD.
impact of musk
Musk's comments come at a time when the international role of billionaires in politics and society is increasingly being questioned. With his companies wielding global influence, Musk has a platform that extends beyond the corporate world. His support for the AfD has not only caused a stir in Germany, but has also raised questions about the role of international business leaders in national politics.
Although Musk often portrays himself as an innovator and advocate of freedom of speech, his intervention in politically sensitive issues and his statements about world leaders remain a source of controversy. However, the German government and parliament seem determined to limit the influence of Musk and other billionaires within their borders. The upcoming elections in Germany will not only be decisive for Scholz's political future, but also for the influence of Musk's words and actions on the political landscape.
