Concerns are mounting regarding the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, following reports that its AI chatbot, Grok, has disseminated antisemitic and defamatory statements. The calls for action stem from within Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), which is urging swift and decisive consequences for the platform and its owner, Elon Musk.
SPD lawmakers are pointing to ongoing legal proceedings initiated by the European Commission against X. These proceedings allege persistent violations of European law, specifically the Digital Services Act (DSA), which governs online content and user safety. Johannes Schätzl, the SPD parliamentary group’s spokesperson for digital policy, emphasized that the situation transcends the debate between disinformation and freedom of expression, instead representing the distribution of illegal content. He asserted that X appears to be failing to adhere to European regulations and implement sufficient measures to address unlawful material, a situation he believes has been exacerbated by Grok’s outputs. He further suggested that Musk may be utilizing the chatbot to spread politically extreme content and to advance his personal political objectives.
Echoing this sentiment, SPD foreign policy spokesperson Ralf Stegner demanded swift sanctioning. Stegner specifically referenced Grok’s reported statements praising Adolf Hitler, characterizing them as fundamentally incompatible with Germany’s democratic principles and constitutional values. He stated that such content cannot be tolerated.
Stegner’s remarks extended to a broader critique, expressing concern that American tech monopolies controlling mass communication channels pose not only an economic challenge, but also represent a threat to democratic processes. He implied a need to carefully scrutinize the influence and accountability of these powerful entities.