As Germany enters the final week of campaigning for the February 23 election, tensions rise over alleged U.S. interference. Comments from U.S. Vice President JD Vance have heightened debates among candidates, particularly concerning the far-right AfD party. Public protests have emerged, and all candidates are vying for undecided voters amidst a charged political atmosphere.
Germany approaches the final stages of its election campaign with intensifying debates, particularly surrounding allegations of U.S. interference favoring the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. With the parliamentary elections scheduled for February 23, 2025, political discourse shifted after U.S. Vice President JD Vance suggested that Germany should reconsider its historical avoidance of far-right governance. This statement sparked significant public outcry, resulting in large protests in Berlin and becoming a focal point in candidate debates.
Candidates have reacted strongly to Vance’s comments. Friedrich Merz, representing the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), asserted his opposition to foreign meddling in Germany’s political processes, insisting there would be no tolerance for such influence over the upcoming elections. Chancellor Olaf Scholz described Vance’s remarks as “unacceptable” and emphasized that there is no collaboration with extreme right factions.
Alice Weidel, the AfD’s leading candidate, voiced her support for Vance’s perspective, arguing that it is crucial to engage with all voters rather than constructing barriers against specific groups. As a historically divisive campaign unfolds, all candidates are competing fiercely for support, especially with a significant portion of the electorate still undecided.
The tension in the final stages of the German election campaign highlights the significant impact of external influences and domestic controversies, particularly surrounding migration and far-right sentiments. With key political figures asserting their stances against foreign interference and emphasizing engagement with all voter demographics, the election outcome remains highly contested as critical debates and public opinions evolve within this charged political environment.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
