Elon Musk has stirred significant controversy with his recent remarks targeting the United Kingdom, calling it a “tyrannical police state” and endorsing far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who is currently imprisoned. Musk, who holds influential sway as the world’s richest man and as a key adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, has increasingly clashed with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government.
Musk’s criticism reached a new level over the weekend when he shared a post about an online petition calling for a new election in the UK, which has gathered 2 million signatures. Musk echoed the sentiment, claiming, “The people of Britain have had enough of a tyrannical police state.” His remarks followed growing public dissatisfaction with Starmer’s leadership, marked by low approval ratings and a major protest by farmers over policies they believe broke campaign promises. While Starmer’s Labour Party is not due for re-election until 2025, the country has experienced a significant political crisis.
In August, Musk drew attention by saying that the UK was on the brink of “civil war” following riots sparked by a fatal knife attack. His latest remarks have sparked heightened concern given his close ties to Trump, whose recent election victory raises questions about Musk’s influence on U.S. foreign policy.
Earlier in November, Musk compared UK policies on inheritance tax for farms to Soviet-era practices under Joseph Stalin, further intensifying the political tension. In a particularly controversial move, Musk also reposted a message from Robinson, who is serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court after spreading false claims about a Syrian refugee. Musk questioned Robinson’s imprisonment, asking, “Why is he in prison for 18 months?”
Musk’s actions, including his repeated endorsement of far-right figures and conspiracy theorists, have raised alarms about his impact on political discourse. He has faced criticism for amplifying extremist voices on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), which he took over in 2022.
Despite Musk’s outspoken stance, Starmer’s office has indicated a willingness to work with Musk and the incoming Trump administration. A spokesperson for Starmer said the UK government looks forward to collaborating with Trump and his team to strengthen the UK-U.S. relationship.
Musk’s criticisms of other U.S. allies, including calling Australia’s government “fascists” and Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz a “fool,” reflect a broader pattern of antagonism toward foreign governments that challenge his views. His comments continue to raise questions about his growing political influence and the potential impact on global relations.
