VP JD Vance Criticizes European Free Speech Policies During Controversial Germany Visit

Vance's remarks and meeting with far-right AfD leaders spark tensions with German officials ahead of elections.

Vice President JD Vance criticized European nations' restrictions on free speech at the Munich Security Conference, labeling them 'Orwellian' and a threat to democracy.
Vance met with Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) leaders, a far-right party under scrutiny for extremism, prompting backlash from German officials and Jewish advocacy groups.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz accused Vance of interfering in Germany's upcoming elections, where the AfD is polling in second place with 20% support.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended Vance's actions, rejecting comparisons of AfD to the Nazi regime and dismissing claims that free speech contributed to the Holocaust.
The controversy highlights a deep divide between U.S. and European perspectives on free expression, with German officials emphasizing the need for speech limits to prevent hate-fueled violence.