The AfD leader and tech mogul criticize Merkel's tenure, advocate for nuclear energy, and address bureaucratic challenges in Germany.
In a widely publicized online discussion on X, a social media platform led by entrepreneur
Elon Musk, Alice Weidel, the leader of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), voiced strong criticism of former German Chancellor
Angela Merkel.
The dialogue, moderated by Gerrit Seebald from Welt, explored a range of topics, including Merkel's policies, Germany's energy strategy, and broader political dynamics.
During the conversation, Weidel harshly critiqued Merkel's immigration policies and her government's commitment to phasing out nuclear energy in favor of renewables.
'Merkel was Germany's first green Chancellor,' Weidel stated, expressing her disapproval of these policy directions.
Aligning on several issues, Musk also recommended re-evaluating Germany's energy policies.
He asserted that Germany should 'ramp up' nuclear energy production, an opinion that Weidel wholeheartedly supported.
The dialogue took place in English, as both participants shared similar viewpoints on the matter.
Musk, known for his ties with AfD and considered a supporter of the American political figure
Donald Trump, used this opportunity to critique German bureaucracy.
He highlighted the challenges he faced while constructing
Tesla's factory in Grünheide near Berlin, describing the permit process as cumbersome, involving '25,000 pages' of necessary documentation.
Weidel concurred with Musk's observations, responding with laughter.
Further solidifying his stance, Musk voiced his public support for the AfD, encouraging voters seeking change to support the party.
He dismissed critiques labeling the AfD as a far-right party, describing them as 'basic common sense.'
Weidel took the opportunity to distance the AfD from extremist historical figures, such as Adolf Hitler, whom she described as 'a communist, socialist type,' portraying the AfD as 'a libertarian conservative party.' She argued that the party has been unfairly categorized as far-right by media and left-leaning entities.
Touching on international issues, the discussion included the Middle East conflict, where Weidel affirmed her support for Israel's right to exist.
Musk, seeking clarity on the AfD's position, received Weidel's confirmation positively.
She also claimed that the AfD is the 'only protector of Jewish people in Germany,' criticizing other parties for opening borders to individuals she believes may hold antisemitic sentiments.
Weidel's critique extended to the German education system, which she condemned as being led by what she described as a 'crazy' and 'socialist' agenda, concentrating on gender studies.
Musk supported this view, suggesting it was indicative of a 'woke-mind virus.'
The discussion garnered significant attention, reflecting public interest in Musk's recent endorsements of the AfD.
The exchange started at 19:00 and was broadcast live, offering real-time access to listeners worldwide through the platform X.