Elon Musk Backs Far-Right AfD in Germany Campaign Appearance

Speaking to a crowd in Halle, Musk praised the AfD as the country's best hope, warning against a perceived dilution of national identity. "It's good to be proud of German culture, German values, and not to lose that in some sort of multiculturalism that dilutes everything," Musk said. He also touched upon the nation's historical baggage, telling the audience that children should not be held responsible for the sins of their ancestors.

This appearance deepens the controversy surrounding the tech mogul's recent political activities. Musk, who previously hosted AfD co-leader Alice Weidel on his platform X, dismissed criticism regarding his recent conduct at a Donald Trump post-inauguration celebration as "dirty tricks." While the Anti-Defamation League characterized his recent hand gestures as an "awkward gesture" rather than a salute, the appearance at the AfD rally has drawn sharp rebukes from media commentators and political observers who view his alignment with the party—a group frequently accused of downplaying Nazi-era crimes—as a dangerous escalation of his political involvement.