Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Tesla and social media platform X, has drawn significant criticism after publicly supporting far-right activist Tommy Robinson and accusing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of failing to prosecute child rapists during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions.
Musk’s Controversial Statements
- Musk pinned a post on X saying, “Free Tommy Robinson!” referring to the jailed far-right activist, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson was convicted in October for making false allegations about a Syrian refugee.
- Musk made multiple posts about child exploitation cases in Rochdale and Oldham, accusing Starmer and Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips of inaction.
- Musk alleged that Starmer, as head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) from 2008–2013, allowed “rape gangs” to operate unchecked.
- He claimed Phillips “deserved to be in prison” for stating that Oldham council, not the national government, should call an inquiry into child exploitation in the region.
Response from Politicians and Public Figures
- Labour MPs expressed outrage, with some calling for the UK government to leave X due to Musk’s increasingly polarizing posts.
- A Labour MP described X as becoming “a cesspit,” while others warned that Musk’s alignment with far-right figures and controversial statements could escalate tensions.
- Downing Street has declined to comment, but Musk’s influence in the incoming Trump administration complicates the UK’s diplomatic stance.
Musk’s Political Involvement
- Musk’s actions follow reports of his plans to donate up to $100 million to Reform UK, a far-right party led by Nigel Farage.
- He has previously voiced support for Germany’s anti-migration party, Alternative für Deutschland, signaling a broader endorsement of nationalist and far-right movements.
Oldham Council’s Response
A spokesperson for Oldham council emphasized their commitment to survivors of child sexual exploitation, stating:
“Terrible mistakes were made in the past, with children ignored or dismissed. By ensuring that survivors have a voice, we can help make sure that no child will be failed in the future.”
Implications and Backlash
Musk’s support for Robinson and far-right causes marks his most explicit endorsement of such ideologies. His comments have intensified debates about his influence on public discourse and the role of social media platforms in enabling divisive narratives.
With tensions rising between Musk, UK political figures, and global governments, his foray into contentious political issues poses challenges for both Tesla’s business interests and international diplomacy.
