Bill Gates criticizes Elon Musk's 'insane' far-right support and political influence

Gates calls Elon Musk's political influence "insane" while discussing global politics and Musk's far-right support.

Bill Gates has expressed strong opinions about Elon Musk’s political activities, calling the Tesla and SpaceX owner’s support for far-right movements in Europe “insane.”

In an interview with The Sunday Times promoting his upcoming memoir Source Code: My Beginnings, Gates criticized Musk’s influence on international politics, particularly in the UK and Germany, where Musk has supported the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD). Gates suggested that countries should implement safeguards to prevent super-rich foreigners from interfering in elections.

While Gates distanced himself from influencing politics like Musk, he reportedly donated $50 million to Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in October, according to The New York Times. Gates questioned Musk’s apparent support for Nigel Farage, saying it wasn’t aligned with Musk’s broader political leanings. “You want to promote the right wing but say Nigel Farage is not right wing enough,” Gates remarked, calling the behavior “insane.”

Despite his criticisms, Gates offered measured praise for Musk, acknowledging his intelligence but cautioning against “populist stirring” and overreach.

“We can all overreach,” Gates told The Sunday Times. “If someone is super-smart, and he is, they should think how they can help out. But this is populist stirring.”

Photo: AP

In a separate interview with the Wall Street Journal, Gates commented on Musk’s involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency, which former President Donald Trump tasked with reducing the federal budget. Gates expressed cautious optimism, hoping Musk’s panel would spare life-saving international programs, including those providing medication for HIV and AIDS patients.