All articles tagged with #german politics
The New York Young Republican Club plans to host Markus Frohnmaier, a far-right German politician from the AfD party, at its gala, amid controversy over the party's extremist reputation and controversial statements, including calls for a 'new civic order' in Germany and the use of Nazi-associated phrases.
Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is poised for a potential comeback as Germany's next chancellor, following a decade-long absence from politics. With the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition, snap elections are set for February. Merz, known for his straightforward rhetoric, faces criticism for controversial remarks but remains a strong contender despite lower personal approval ratings compared to his party. His corporate background and wealth are seen as potential drawbacks, yet his determination and ambition are likened to former chancellor Gerhard Schröder.
German politician Sahra Wagenknecht has launched a new party, the BSW, which aims to appeal to culturally conservative and economically left-wing voters by supporting higher minimum wage and opposing net-zero policies and weapons deliveries to Ukraine. Wagenknecht, known for her anti-immigration stance, left Die Linke and aims to attract voters away from the far-right AfD. The BSW's emergence could impact the upcoming European elections and state elections in eastern Germany, potentially challenging the far-right party's position.
Markus Söder, the dominant figure in Bavaria's conservative Christian Social Union (CSU), has been the state premier for five years. Despite the CSU's declining popularity, Söder maintains a strong presence through his entertaining and lighthearted style, often using social media to engage with voters. He has ambitions for higher office, but his chances of becoming the CDU/CSU's chancellor candidate seem doubtful, as he faces competition within his own party and the rising power of rival parties. Söder's political future depends on the success of Bavaria and the CSU.
Billionaire Elon Musk sparked controversy by reposting an article criticizing German-funded migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean, suggesting they could be seen as an "invasion" of Italy. Musk called for the far-right party AfD to win upcoming regional elections in Germany, prompting a rebuke from the German foreign ministry, which defended the operations as life-saving. The debate comes amid a heated discussion on immigration in Europe, with Italy demanding that charity ships disembark rescued migrants in their own countries. Immigration has also become a key topic ahead of regional elections in Bavaria and Hesse.