Elon Musk surprised many by appearing at an Alternative for Germany (AfD) election campaign event in Halle, eastern Germany, on Saturday. This marked his second public declaration of support for the far-right party in recent weeks.
During the event, Musk, alongside party co-leader Alice Weidel, addressed an audience of 4,500 people via video link. They spoke about the importance of preserving German culture and protecting the German people.
“It’s important to take pride in German culture and values, and not let them be diluted by multiculturalism,” Musk stated.
Just a week prior, Musk sparked controversy at President Donald Trump’s inauguration with a gesture that some interpreted as a Nazi salute.
Reacting to the criticism, Musk addressed the crowd on Saturday, emphasizing, “Children should not be held accountable for the actions of their ancestors, let alone their great-grandparents.”
He added, “There’s too much emphasis on past guilt; it’s time to move forward.”
Musk, known for his concerns about free speech limitations under the German government, has previously criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Expressing his support for the far-right, Musk declared to the audience, “I am enthusiastic about the AfD. I believe you are Germany’s best hope for a prosperous future.”
Weidel thanked Musk, drew parallels between the AfD and the Republican Party’s efforts to “make America great again,” and urged supporters to work towards “making Germany great again.”
Earlier in the month, Musk interviewed Weidel on X, raising concerns about potential election interference.
Despite the chilly conditions, anti-far-right activists gathered in large numbers on Saturday. Around 100,000 people assembled near Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate and up to 20,000 in Cologne, some carrying colorful umbrellas, representing diverse age groups.
Source: www.theguardian.com
