During a Munich visit, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Alice Weidel of Germany’s far-right AfD party, directly contradicting German leaders who refuse to cooperate with the AfD, a policy known as a “firewall.” Vance criticized Europe’s handling of free speech and immigration, arguing against the “firewall” approach and suggesting that ignoring voters’ concerns threatens democracy. However, German officials, including Chancellor Scholz and Defense Minister Pistorius, strongly rejected Vance’s assertions, defending their democratic processes and highlighting the AfD’s ability to participate openly in the political landscape. Vance also met with other German officials, including President Steinmeier and opposition leader Merz.
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In a controversial move, US Vice President JD Vance met with Alice Weidel, leader of Germany’s far-right AfD party, prompting outrage in German political circles. This meeting, weeks before a German election, follows similar interactions between the AfD and figures close to Donald Trump, highlighting a growing US engagement with Europe’s far-right. Vance’s subsequent speech at the Munich Security Conference, criticizing European leaders for not working with far-right parties, further strained US-European relations. The German chancellor and other officials strongly condemned Vance’s actions and statements.
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Following comments by U.S. Vice President JD Vance urging German politicians to cooperate with the Alternative for Germany (AfD), the German government issued a rebuke. The spokesperson stated that foreign interference in the upcoming German election is inappropriate. Vance’s comments echo similar interventions by Elon Musk, prompting concern over outside influence on German politics. This intervention comes at a sensitive time, with a snap election scheduled for February 23.
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Following Elon Musk’s public endorsement of Germany’s AfD party, including online interactions with party leadership, concerns have been raised by CDU leader Friedrich Merz regarding potential legal ramifications, specifically whether Musk’s actions constitute an illegal donation. Merz also hinted at potential consequences for Tesla’s German operations depending on post-election developments. Current polls indicate a strong showing for both Merz’s CDU and the AfD, making coalition formation with either the SPD or Greens likely for the CDU. Musk’s support for the AfD follows a pattern of backing populist-right figures across Europe.
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Over 200,000 people protested in Munich on February 8th, 2025, against the far-right AfD party and the CDU’s perceived overtures towards it. These demonstrations, under the banner “Democracy needs you,” followed similar large-scale protests in Berlin the previous week. Concerns centered on the CDU’s collaboration with the AfD on an anti-immigration bill, a move seen as violating Germany’s long-standing taboo against working with the far right. Additional protests, including one in Hanover, also drew significant crowds ahead of crucial upcoming elections.
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German authorities uncovered over 100 dormant websites designed to disseminate disinformation, likely in preparation for the upcoming Bundestag election. These sites, mimicking legitimate news sources, contain AI-generated content and are poised to rapidly spread fabricated stories via social media. This activity mirrors previous instances of foreign interference in European elections, particularly those attributed to Russia. The timing is especially concerning given the AfD’s strong showing in polls.
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In the face of widespread personnel cuts within the U.S. government and foreign aid agencies under the Trump administration, Friedrich Merz faces a challenging German election. This comes as Elon Musk’s support for the AfD party, described by Merz as “invasive and presumptuous,” adds to the political climate. Trump’s administration has implemented sweeping changes, including deferred resignations, dismissals of federal watchdogs, and ambitions to seize control of foreign territories. The upcoming German election on February 23rd will be a crucial test for Merz’s lead against the AfD.
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Friedrich Merz, leading in German election polls, declared the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) his most significant opponent, vowing never to cooperate with them. This follows controversy surrounding a parliamentary motion, passed with AfD support, that sparked widespread protests and accusations of Merz compromising his party’s principles. Merz maintains his tough stance on migration is unchanged and insists his party will not form a government with the AfD, rejecting accusations of untrustworthiness. He blames the governing coalition for the necessity of seeking AfD votes.
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German conservatives are experiencing a dip in poll numbers as the election approaches, a development that’s sparking considerable discussion and analysis. The recent decline, however, is relatively small, with one poll showing a 2% drop from 30% to 28%, while another shows the CDU/CSU remaining stable at 30%. This modest shift raises questions about the significance of these early findings and the need for more data before drawing definitive conclusions. The small margin of error further complicates any immediate interpretation.
The timing of these polls is also crucial. They were conducted shortly after the conservatives’ announced a common vote with the far-right AfD, an event that undoubtedly impacted public opinion.… Continue reading
Fueled by the CDU’s controversial collaboration with the far-right AfD on immigration legislation, tens of thousands protested in Berlin against this perceived breach of Germany’s post-war political consensus. These demonstrations, echoing similar protests nationwide, occurred three weeks before national elections and targeted the CDU’s headquarters. The CDU’s leader, Friedrich Merz, defended his actions despite widespread condemnation, including from Angela Merkel. Public outrage stemmed from votes cast alongside the AfD on immigration-related bills, raising concerns about the future of German politics.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood