Germany Faces Divisive Election as Far-Right AfD Gains Momentum

The rise of the AfD, polling second in the federal election, highlights economic concerns, immigration tensions, and international scrutiny.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is polling at 20-21%, potentially becoming the second-largest party in the Bundestag, though mainstream parties have ruled out forming coalitions with it.
The AfD's platform includes anti-immigration policies, EU skepticism, calls to lift sanctions on Russia, and opposition to net-zero climate policies, drawing significant controversy within Germany and abroad.
Public protests against the AfD have intensified following revelations of extremist ties and controversial remarks by party members, including minimizing aspects of Germany's Nazi history.
International figures like U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk have openly supported the AfD, raising concerns about foreign influence on Germany's electoral process.
Economic stagnation, rising energy costs, and dissatisfaction with the current government have fueled voter frustration, benefiting the AfD and creating uncertainty about Germany's political future.