German Far-Right Influencer Applies for US Funding to Create Media Network
Overview of Naomi Seibt's Application for US State Department Funding
BERLIN, Aug 10 (Reuters) - A German far-right influencer whose online posts have been amplified by Elon Musk has applied for funding from the U.S. State Department to launch a media network for political content, Germany's Handelsblatt news outlet reported on Monday.
Background on Naomi Seibt
Naomi Seibt, a self-professed libertarian and supporter of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), told Handelsblatt that she had applied under a U.S. State Department program intended to back European organisations focused on issues including free speech, national sovereignty and the impact of migration.
A decision on the application is pending, Seibt told the news outlet.
Media Network Plans
The 25-year-old plans to launch a network called the "Freedom Alliance of the West", including a social media channel and cooperation with lawyers involved in free speech cases, alternative media outlets and polling institutes.
Seibt's Public Profile and Activities
Seibt rose to prominence as a climate change sceptic and later became one of the German commentators with whom Musk most frequently engaged on his social media platform X.
According to the report, Seibt applied for political asylum in the United States last year.
Responses and Statements
Seibt did not respond to an emailed request for comment from Reuters.
The State Department said it does not comment on its decision-making process but added that its programming supports European allies in defending "their civilizational self-confidence and sovereignty from those who seek to undermine them."
(Writing by Friederike Heine, Editing by Miranda Murray)
