Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The EU’s digital spokesperson said Elon Musk’s plan for a live chat with a German extreme-right leader on X this week is allowed under European Union laws.
The spokesperson, Thomas Regnier, expressed that a live discussion on X was not a breach of EU rules and urged the DSA not to “censor any type of content.”
“Nothing in the DSA forbids the owner of a platform or anyone to host a live stream and represent his personal views,”
The spokesperson briefed journalists in Brussels.
“Mr Musk is allowed to represent his personal views, his political views in the EU online and offline,”
He said.
However, Regnier stated that the continuing investigation of X
“includes suspected infringement in areas related to the control of risks on civic discourse and electoral processes.”
He stated the EU would “carefully” evaluate the live stream and could contain it in its current investigation, relying on whether any risks are determined.
He further said platform owners should make sure they are “not misapplied or giving a preferential treatment to specific types of content, or an expanded visibility to just one type of content.”
What is Elon Musk’s plan to host a far-right leader?
Far-right Alternative for Germany party chancellor candidate Alice Weidel is set to participate in a live conversation on the platform X, formerly Twitter, with the site’s CEO, Elon Musk. This conversation will occur prior to the date of the German snap elections that have been slated for February 23, 2025. Previously, he had very actively been touting the AfD. In a post, he claimed that “only the AfD can save Germany” and branded the party as the “last spark of hope” for the nation. The endorsement has brought out German political leaders in condemnation, accusing him of trying to interfere with the election process.
The German government has criticized Musk’s comments, with officials suggesting he is trying to sway public opinion ahead of the elections. This incident showcases Musk’s increasing political power in European politics as he has also advocated for other far-right politicians on the continent. This live chat will also fan the flames as it focuses public attention on his politicized positions and controversial ties.
