Story perspectives

Badenoch Avoids Condemnation of Musk's Controversial Rally Remarks

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, refrained from condemning Elon Musk's call for the far-right to "fight back or die" at a London rally.
Musk's comments sparked concerns about violence and prompted discussions about his association with the Royal Society.
Sir Adrian Smith, president of the Royal Society, expressed concern over Musk's language and its alignment with the organization's values.
Musk criticized "uncontrolled migration" and warned of imminent violence.
Public figures, including Jo Cox's widower, denounced Musk's speech as incitement to violence.

History

Historical Context

The Brexit referendum in 2016 intensified anti-immigrant sentiment in the UK, with the UKIP party receiving 12.6% of the vote, reflecting public support for strict immigration controls. Elon Musk's recent comments resonate with this historical context, echoing fears about migration and violence, which could further polarize public opinion and incite unrest, reminiscent of the divisive atmosphere post-Brexit.

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Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, refrained from condemning Elon Musk's call for the far-right to "fight back or die" at a London rally.
Musk's comments sparked concerns about violence and prompted discussions about his association with the Royal Society.
Sir Adrian Smith, president of the Royal Society, expressed concern over Musk's language and its alignment with the organization's values.
Musk criticized "uncontrolled migration" and warned of imminent violence.
Public figures, including Jo Cox's widower, denounced Musk's speech as incitement to violence.

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