Elon Musk's Political Influence Raises Concerns Ahead of European Elections

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As Europe gears up for significant electoral events, concerns are mounting over the intervention of influential figures, most notably Elon Musk. The billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, who has openly criticized leaders like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer on social media, is seen as a key player in potentially shifting political dynamics.

Musk's recent endorsement of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has alarmed officials as upcoming elections approach. He stated, "Only the AfD can save Germany," prompting reactions from various political leaders, including Scholz, who urged calm amidst Musk's "erratic statements."

The mounting unease is not limited to Germany, as similar patterns of interference were observed during Romania's recent presidential election, ultimately suspended by the Constitutional Court amid claims of disinformation favoring pro-Russian candidates. Observers warn that Musk's activities could parallel previous Russian interference efforts, which have historically aimed to destabilize European democracies.

European leaders, including German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, have cautioned that both overt and covert external influences pose a threat to democratic processes in nations preparing for upcoming elections, including Poland and more.

As Musk continues to wield substantial sway through his media platform X, experts call for increased regulation of social media influences in political campaigns to safeguard democratic integrity and combat the risks associated with unchecked external interference.

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