ALBAWABA - On Sunday, Elon Musk's backing of far-right parties in Europe was condemned by dozens of demonstrators who gathered outside a Tesla dealership in Lisbon. According to Reuters, the protest takes place as Portugal deals with political unpredictability and the prospect of early elections.
Musk has been promoting far-right groups and individuals in Germany, the UK, Italy, and Romania via his platform, X (previously Twitter). The far-right Chega party has grown and is now the third-largest force in the Portuguese parliament, despite his lack of active political involvement.
Signs showing Musk and former US President Donald Trump were hoisted by protesters in Lisbon, while banners bearing the words "Boycott Tesla."
A 54-year-old Lisbon doctor named Nuno Raimundo expressed his worries among the demonstrators, saying, "Now is the time for people worldwide to take a stand against Trump’s leadership and Musk’s push for the far-right in Europe."
"If we don't act, Europe could return to the political climate of the 1930s," he said, warning of historical similarities. Musk may not yet be able to affect Portugal's elections, but he may gradually do so because to his enormous riches.
The center-right administration of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro consented Thursday to a vote of confidence in its minority government, which was just created a year ago, putting Portugal in yet another political crisis. His leadership could end as a result of this.
New elections, perhaps the third in three years, might be held on May 11 or May 18, according to President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
In January 2025, Tesla's sales in Europe fell 45% from the previous year, while those of its rivals increased by 37%, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.
