Earlier this week, tech billionaire Elon Musk publicly withdrew his support for the Reform UK party, posting on his social media platform that Nigel Farage “doesn’t have what it takes”.

Musk’s decision not to back, or financially support, Britain’s right-wing reform party came as he continues a barrage of online attacks against prime minister Keir Starmer, who he has accused of being complicit in “the rape of Britain”.

His interest in European politics extends to Germany where Musk has backed the far-right Alternative for Germany party and labelled outgoing German chancellor Olaf Scholz an “incompetent fool”.

And back in the United States, the world’s richest man will take up his position as co-leader of the newly created department of government efficiency, when Donald Trump re-enters the White House later this month.

In recent years, Musk has met presidents, prime ministers, lawmakers and political candidates from all around the world.

So, what is his end game and how much political influence does he really have?

Inside Politics presenter Hugh Linehan joins the podcast.

Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.

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