Elon Musk's Controversial Endorsement Sparks German Election Uproar

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's endorsement of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has ignited accusations of election interference. German officials, including government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann and major political figures, have condemned Musk, likening his actions to Russian election meddling. The controversy arises amid Germany's political crisis.

In a surprising twist, German political turmoil has been exacerbated by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who recently endorsed the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) ahead of snap elections. This endorsement has drawn severe criticism from key German political figures, stirring a national debate on foreign influence in democratic processes.

Government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann openly accused Musk of attempting to sway the federal election, reminding the public that the AfD is under surveillance for right-wing extremism. SPD co-leader Lars Klingbeil intensified criticism by comparing Musk to Russian President Vladimir Putin, alleging both are undermining Germany's democratic fabric.

CDU leader Friedrich Merz condemned Musk's endorsement as unprecedented meddling in ally relations, highlighting the economic dangers of the AfD's EU-exit policies. Amid this controversy, Germany is preparing for snap elections following Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition collapse, which has plunged the nation into a political crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)