- The AfD won a German state election, challenging the ruling government and sending shockwaves through Europe.
- Trump hailed the AfD's strong result, calling it a 'really big night' and criticizing immigration rules that he claims have hurt Germany.
- An opinion piece describes Germany's turn to the far right as 'chilling', reflecting concerns about the political shift.
US President Donald Trump celebrated the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's recent electoral success, which saw them win 39 seats in Saxony-Anhalt's 83-seat Parliament, just three short of a majority. This marks the first time a far-right party has claimed victory in a state election since the Nazi era.
Trump remarked, “The Populist Party in Germany just had a really big night. They finally got tired of the absolutely horrible Immigration rules and regulations which have hurt Germany so badly,” emphasizing the party's rise amid widespread discontent with immigration policies.2
The AfD's victory represents a significant challenge to Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), reflecting a broader repudiation of mainstream political parties. The party has campaigned on a platform of strict immigration controls, including mass deportations and segregated schooling for refugee children.
AfD politician Hans-Thomas Tillschneider stated their goal is to “make Germany great again”, while also expressing controversial views on LGBTQ rights, calling for a ban on rainbow flags in schools. The party's nativist agenda and desire to strengthen ties with Russia further illustrate its radical stance.
The CDU has historically kept the AfD at bay through coalition strategies, but the recent election results suggest that this “firewall” may soon collapse, indicating a potential shift in Germany's political landscape.
“Trump credited the result to 'horrible Immigration rules,' saying the party is 'ON THE RISE.' The vote sent shockwaves through Europe, with an opinion piece calling Germany's turn 'chilling.'”
The Globe and Mail
