Elon Musk migration remarks controversy

In late July 2026, Elon Musk used an interview with *The Economist* to denounce Sweden’s demographic trends, claiming the country’s safety record had deteriorated due to high levels of immigration. He cited Statistics Sweden data showing that 28 % of the population had a foreign background in 2025 and warned that “the Swedish people are dying out,” framing large‑scale migration as an existential threat to Europe’s identity.

Two days later, Musk reiterated his rejection of a “far‑right” label in a follow‑up interview with *The Economist* editor Zani Minton Bedous. He argued that his advocacy for secure borders, safe cities and prudent public spending is ordinary, not extremist. Musk also criticized migration policies he says increase crime, accused the political left of mischaracterising mainstream positions, and referenced past politicians to illustrate how ideas become politicised. Both snapshots reflect Musk’s broader attempt to position his views on migration and public policy as mainstream while distancing himself from far‑right extremism.