“A scary character”: François Hollande strongly criticizes Elon Musk and challenges Emmanuel Macron

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Former President of the Republic François Hollande made some hard-hitting statements this Wednesday, August 28, during the Socialist Party's summer universities in Blois. At the heart of his remarks: a scathing criticism of Elon Musk, the controversial billionaire.

François Hollande did not mince his words in calling Elon Musk a “scary character” who, according to him, “does not want the good of humanity”. These statements came as the former leader d’État spoke of significant meetings with figures he considers worrying, which occurred during his presidential term.

The socialist drew a striking parallel between Elon Musk and Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, whom he also described as a worrying figure. This comparison, far from being insignificant, underlines the gravity with which Hollande perceives the influence and intentions of the tech magnate.

Emmanuel Macron not spared

François Hollande's criticism did not stop at Elon Musk. It extended to his successor at the Élysée, Emmanuel Macron, whose judgment he questioned. He in fact referred to the recent meetings between Emmanuel Macron and Elon Musk using a metaphor that was critical to say the least. “When I see that he is received at the Élysée, it's as if you were bringing the devil into your home” he declared. He added, not without a hint of irony, that this “didn't shake Emmanuel Macron”.

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These comments follow several meetings between the current president and the billionaire. In May 2023, Musk participated in the “Choose France” summit, an event aimed at attracting foreign investment to France. He was among 200 multinational executives received by Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. At this summit, the Tesla CEO promised “significant investments in France”, a statement that was welcomed by the French government.

A month later, in June 2023, Elon Musk was back in Paris for the Vivatech trade show, where he met again with the President of the Republic. This time, their discussions covered a range of topics from the automobile industry to artificial intelligence and social networks.

On the democratic role of web giants

François Hollande's position raises important questions about the relationship between political leaders and tech giants. It highlights growing concerns about the influence of tech giants on society and politics. Elon Musk, in particular, has been at the center of much controversy, especially since his acquisition of Twitter (now X), where his decisions have often been criticized for their impact on freedom of expression and the dissemination of information.

The former French president's comments are part of a broader debate about the regulation of technology companies and the power they wield. They reflect a certain concern about the concentration of power in the hands of a small number of individuals at the head of companies that increasingly shape our daily lives and our access to information.

• François Hollande calls Elon Musk a “scary character” not wanting the good of humanity.
• The former president criticizes Emmanuel Macron for his relations with Elon Musk
• These statements raise questions about the relations between political leaders and tech giants

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