Elon Musk stirred international controversy following a surprise video address at the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s election campaign launch on Saturday. His comments, urging Germans to take pride in their nationality, resonated with the far-right party’s stance on national pride and historical atonement. The remarks drew both applause from the AfD audience and condemnation from global leaders, highlighting the contentious nature of historical remembrance in Germany.
Poland's Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, labeled Musk's comments as "ominous" and "all too familiar," echoing concerns about revisiting Germany's past. Musk's speech mirrored the AfD's long-held position that Germany should move beyond atoning for Nazi-era crimes, a sentiment that has often fueled political debates in the country. The event took place just hours before the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, adding a layer of sensitivity to Musk's statements.
Criticism came swiftly from various quarters. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) rebuked Musk for posting Nazi puns on social media, describing them as "inappropriate and highly offensive jokes that trivialize the Holocaust." Dani Dayan, chairman of the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, accused Musk of insulting victims of Nazism, reinforcing the gravity of his comments within the international community.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, defended Musk amidst the backlash, asserting that he was "falsely smeared." Despite this defense, Musk faced mounting criticism from European leaders for his growing involvement in their political affairs. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz remarked at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Musk's comments were "not helpful" and emphasized the freedom of expression paired with a rejection of far-right support.
“Everyone is free to express their opinion in Germany and Europe, including billionaires… but we do not accept support for far-right positions.” – Olaf Scholz
Musk responded to his critics with a post on X, stating "Shame on Oaf Schitz!" This retort did little to pacify those concerned about his influence on European politics. Last week, Musk faced additional scrutiny after making a gesture at a rally that some commentators likened to a fascist salute. His increasing interest in European politics has drawn accusations from several continental leaders of interference and promotion of dangerous figures.
“the remembrance and acknowledgement of the dark past of the country and its people should be central in shaping the German society,” – Dani Dayan
Musk's comments also touched on issues central to Germany's upcoming general election on February 23, particularly immigration. He urged AfD co-leader Alice Weidel and her supporters not to lose their national pride amidst "some kind of multiculturalism that dilutes everything," aligning with AfD's anti-immigration stance.
The ADL initially dismissed Musk's Nazi puns as an awkward misstep rather than a deliberate affront.
“an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm” – Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
