Tech billionaire Elon Musk could play a pivotal role in spreading MAGA populism across Europe, according to Steve Bannon, the outspoken right-wing podcaster and former top aide to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg, Bannon emphasized the immense political power Musk’s wealth and influence could wield on the global stage.
“Money and Information Are Tactical Nukes”
Bannon described Musk as a potential game-changer in European politics, even as the two remain at odds over key issues like the U.S. H-1B visa program. Despite disagreements, Bannon sees Musk as an ally in the broader populist battle.
“Money and information are the twin tactical nukes of modern politics — and he can deploy both at unprecedented scale,” Bannon said.
Bannon underscored Musk’s recent $250 million contribution to Trump’s campaign as a blueprint for transforming European politics. “If he puts the same amount of money into all of Europe that he put behind Trump, he will flip every nation to a populist agenda. There’s not a centrist left-wing government in Europe that will be able to withstand that onslaught.”
Musk’s Controversial Moves in Europe
Musk’s political footprint in Europe is already causing waves. He recently declared support for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has drawn backlash from mainstream European leaders. Meanwhile, Musk’s feud with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has further polarized opinions, signaling his willingness to wade into European political debates.
Bannon framed Musk’s actions as part of a larger strategy to dismantle centrist and left-wing governments across the continent. “Musk’s influence will work to the advantage of the MAGA movement, and by extension, the populist cause in Europe,” he said.
A Complex Alliance
While Bannon and Musk don’t see eye-to-eye on issues like skilled foreign worker visas, they share a broader goal of shaking up the political status quo. “I support his participation because the enemy of my enemy is my friend,” Bannon remarked, referring to their shared opposition to globalist and progressive agendas.
Bannon recently criticized Musk for his stance on the H-1B visa program, warning that he and other MAGA supporters would “rip his face off” if he continued pushing for increased visas. However, the friction hasn’t stopped Bannon from recognizing Musk’s value to the movement.
Europe’s Political Landscape at a Crossroads
With Musk’s backing, Bannon envisions a wave of populist victories across Europe that could reshape the continent’s political landscape. By leveraging his massive wealth and control of information platforms, Musk could amplify far-right movements, similar to how MAGA reshaped American politics.
Bannon’s remarks come at a time when populist parties across Europe are gaining traction, fueled by economic discontent, immigration debates, and skepticism toward traditional political elites.
The Road Ahead
Bannon’s bold predictions highlight the increasing globalization of populist movements and Musk’s growing role in politics beyond the U.S. If Musk channels his resources into European campaigns, the political landscape could shift dramatically, sparking new debates over the role of billionaires in democracy.
As Bannon put it, “There’s not a centrist left-wing government in Europe that will be able to withstand that onslaught.”
