Pelle Dragsted, spokesperson for the Enhedslisten party, has strongly criticized entrepreneur Martin Thorborg, drawing parallels between his views and those of autocratic leaders like Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Dragsted argues that Thorborg’s stance on deserving preferential treatment undermines Denmark’s social cohesion and defense against anti-democratic forces.

The criticism stems from Thorborg’s recent statements about skipping queues at nightclubs due to his financial contributions to society. Thorborg asserted that his high tax payments and busy schedule entitle him to certain privileges, a sentiment Dragsted vehemently opposes.

Dragsted believes that Thorborg’s perspective reflects a dangerous elitism that threatens the egalitarian values of Danish society. He argues that such attitudes create divisions and undermine the solidarity crucial for a healthy democracy. He also states that Thorborg could not have created his wealth if he had been placed on a desert island, suggesting that wealth is a result of collective effort rather than individual achievement.

Enhedslisten has launched a campaign advocating for reduced executive compensation and increased wages for ordinary workers, aiming to address what they perceive as growing inequality. Dragsted sees this inequality as a consequence of the current government’s policies, which he believes favor the economic elite.

Thorborg responded to Dragsted’s criticism by accusing him of hypocrisy, suggesting that Dragsted himself is part of the elite due to his position and benefits. However, Thorborg acknowledged the importance of balancing inequality and agreed that excessive disparity could create societal problems.