Tech billionaire Elon Musk has hit back at French President Emmanuel Macron, who accused him of meddling in European elections, including Germany’s upcoming snap legislative polls. The clash marks the latest episode in growing tensions between Musk and European leaders, as the Tesla CEO faces criticism over his controversial social media posts and perceived political interventions.
Macron voiced his concerns during a press conference, warning about the influence of social media platforms in shaping political outcomes. “Ten years ago, who could have imagined it if we had been told that the owner of one of the largest social networks in the world would support a new international reactionary movement and intervene directly in elections, including in Germany?” Macron said. He further suggested that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump sees Musk as an ally in Europe, adding fuel to the transatlantic political controversy.
Musk’s response came swiftly on his social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter. The tech mogul directed his ire at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing him of hypocrisy and interfering in U.S. elections. “Oh like that time Starmer called @realDonaldTrump a racist and said the British government should do everything to stop him? Or when Starmer sent British Labour Party members to campaign in the US against President Trump this year?” Musk posted.
The reference alludes to a complaint filed by Trump’s campaign with the Federal Election Commission in Washington, accusing the UK’s Labour Party of “blatant foreign interference” after some of its members volunteered to campaign for Vice President Kamala Harris during the U.S. presidential election.
In response to Musk’s accusations, Starmer defended his actions, dismissing the claims as baseless. “Those that are spreading lies and misinformation as far and as wide as possible, they’re not interested in victims, they’re interested in themselves,” Starmer told reporters. He also warned against the “whipping up of intimidation and threats of violence” by powerful figures, a thinly veiled reference to Musk’s recent social media activity.
The controversy has sparked concern across Europe, with several leaders criticizing Musk’s influence. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed unease over Musk’s growing political involvement. “It is worrying that someone with so much wealth and influence is getting involved in the politics of European countries,” Støre remarked.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also weighed in, accusing Musk of backing a far-right party ahead of Germany’s legislative elections next month. Scholz warned of the dangers posed by wealthy individuals attempting to sway democratic processes.
Musk’s controversial posts have focused on a historical child sexual exploitation scandal in northern England, a sensitive issue that has dogged Starmer due to his role as the former Director of Public Prosecutions. Critics argue that Musk’s comments are part of a broader attempt to stir up support for right-wing movements across Europe.
The escalating war of words has placed additional pressure on Starmer’s government. With far-right parties gaining momentum across Europe, the British Prime Minister is walking a tightrope between maintaining good relations with Trump’s incoming administration and curbing the influence of extremist rhetoric.
European leaders now face the challenge of managing Musk’s influence on political discourse, as his statements continue to resonate with a segment of the public. The situation underscores the growing impact of social media giants on democratic institutions and the delicate balance between freedom of speech and political accountability in the digital age.
