The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has made a historic breakthrough, becoming the second-largest political force in Germany just 12 years after its founding. The far-right party secured around 20% of the vote, nearly doubling its result from the last election in 2021. In eastern Germany, it has become the strongest political force.
AfD leader Alice Weidel expressed her willingness to form a coalition with the winning center-right alliance of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU). However, she also criticized CDU leader Friedrich Merz for his promise to halve the AfD’s vote share. Weidel claimed that the opposite had occurred.
The AfD’s anti-immigration rhetoric during the campaign played a significant role in its success. Elon Musk, a US billionaire and Trump confidant, publicly supported the party, while US Vice President JD Vance also came out in support of the AfD.
Despite its gains, the AfD faces criticism for being classified as partially far-right extremist by German security authorities. Some party officials have been scrutinized for using banned slogans and symbols from the Nazi era.
AfD leader Weidel has vowed to continue her party’s growth, indicating her availability to be candidate for chancellor in 2029. However, CDU leader Merz reiterated his rejection of the AfD as a potential coalition partner, citing differences on foreign and security policy.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/german-afd-sees-record-gains-but-still-shut-out-from-power/a-71725460