The tech billionaire and Trump adviser has drawn rebukes for repeatedly endorsing the AfD in the leadup to Germany’s snap election next month.

Musk's support for AfD has helped what was once a fringe political party enter the mainstream, lifting it up in front of a global audience.

During his address to AfD supporters in Halle, Musk said "people take pride in Germany and being German" to a huge applause. The gathering was addressed by AfD leader Alice Weidel as well. Weidel is AfD's candidate for the post of chancellor.