In The News ‘My Irish friends are awesome’ says Elon Musk – who are they?
Jan 2, 2026
Conor Gallagher, crime and security correspondent for The Irish Times, dives into Elon Musk's curious connections with three controversial Irish figures on X. He profiles far-right activist Michael O'Keeffe, whose provocative posts often attract Musk's attention. Barry O'Driscoll, known as 'Sir Doge of the Coin,' entices Musk with meme politics, while Keith O'Brien's extreme views raise red flags. Gallagher explains how Musk amplifies misinformation and the risks it poses for Ireland's image, stirring discussion about foreign influence and its consequences.
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Musk's Amplification Power
- Elon Musk follows few but appears in millions of feeds, amplifying those he interacts with.
- His boosts can turn fringe posts into viral narratives that shape public perception.
Michael O'Keefe's Online Campaign
- Conor Gallagher profiles Michael O'Keefe as a prolific far-right instigator from Waterford.
- O'Keefe posts racist and Islamophobic content that aimed first at an Irish audience then international racists.
Engagement Trumps Accuracy
- O'Keefe crafts extreme, engagement-driven claims that attract Musk's attention and reshares.
- Musk often retweets or reacts minimally, sending content to his 219 million followers.