German politicians condemned billionaire Elon Musk on Monday for his endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) Party during an exchange on his social media platform X, calling it an intrusive and unwelcome attempt to influence the country’s elections. Musk claimed that the party represents the “voice of the people” and criticized the ruling coalition’s immigration policies on the platform. He later doubled down on his view that “only the AfD can save Germany” in an opinion piece for a German newspaper.

Leading politicians from across Germany’s political spectrum rejected Musk’s comments. German government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann told reporters, “It is a fact that Elon Musk is trying to exert influence on the parliamentary election.” The editor of the newspaper Welt Ann Sonntag resigned shortly after the opinion piece appeared in the newspaper.

This comes as Germany prepares for new elections in February 2025 and after pivotal state elections in Hesse and Bavaria, where the AFD party has gained traction in the past election. Musk’s endorsement has also reignited concerns over the role of social media in amplifying extremist voices.

Musk, who acquired X in 2022, has faced criticism for his platform’s content moderation policies and his controversial statements. This also comes after the European Union implemented stricter rules under the Digital Services Act, requiring platforms to increase transparency and accountability, particularly during elections. The first formal proceedings under the Digital Services Act were brought against X in December 2023. Germany had also enhanced electoral oversight mechanisms following reports of disinformation campaigns during past elections. Additionally, various branches of the AfD have been labeled as an extremist group by the German domestic security agency.