German Vice Chancellor Habeck slams Musk’s AfD endorsement

Andrea Calvello
Credit: REUTERS/David Swanson

Berlin (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – German Vice Chancellor Habeck criticized Musk’s support for the AfD, calling it a systematic attempt to weaken Europe.

German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck stated in his New Year’s address that tech billionaire Elon Musk’s backing for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is a “logical and systematic” attempt to create a weaker, less regulated Europe.

The assertions by Musk are not made out of ignorance, expressed Habeck. “It is logical and systematic. Musk is supporting those who are weakening Europe. A vulnerable Europe is in the interest of those for whom law is an inappropriate restriction of their power,” said Habeck.

A day earlier, the German government accused Elon Musk of interference in the federal elections, mostly because he made public his stance for the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD). According to a German government spokesperson, while Musk is free to say whatever he wants, his conclusions are questionable and can be considered a blow to democratic processes.

How does Musk’s stance impact upcoming German elections?

On December 29, 2024, Elon Musk caused many altercations after publicising an opinion in the German newspaper Welt am Sonntag wherein he declared, “Only the AfD can save Germany”, where he branded it as the country’s “last hope.”. This, Musk said, could only drive Germany to the future of economic prosperity, cultural integrity, and scientific progress. 

The statements were made when political instability was already evident due to the pending elections scheduled on February 23, 2025, immediately after the breakdown of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government. It is a crucial election for the country as it will determine the manner in which the members will be represented in the Bundestag and should bring a different structure to the political scene in the country.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Andrea Calvello is a Journalist at Brussels Morning News. He is covering European Politics, European Parliament, European Council, European Commission and Europe News. He is a highly accomplished journalist and digital specialist with a wealth of experience in the media industry. He holds a Master's degree in Business Administration with a focus on marketing and digital transformation, as well as an Executive Master in Human Resources Management, Development, and Administration. Additionally, he has completed a specialization course in advertising communication, marketing, and Made in Italy communication and digital technologies. Calvello is also a member of the National Order of Journalists and has had a successful career as a TV journalist, bringing his expertise in marketing and digital communication to the world of television broadcasting. His diverse skill set and passion for innovation have set him apart as a dynamic and influential figure in the field of media and communications.
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