Alice Weidel, co-chair of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has been elected as the top candidate for the Baden-Württemberg state association in the 2025 federal election, securing 87% of the votes. This decision, however, has sparked significant controversy and opposition. The AfD, under scrutiny by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution for suspected right-wing extremism, faces internal and external challenges.
The election process was marked by tension, with former party leader Dirk Spaniel announcing his departure following Weidel's victory. Spaniel, a long-time adversary of Weidel, expressed his dissatisfaction with the party's direction, emphasizing the internal strife within the Baden-Württemberg state association.
Despite the divisive atmosphere, Weidel's candidacy, supported by co-chair Tino Chrupalla, positions her as a potential chancellor candidate. The party aims to strengthen its public image and address political challenges, although it firmly rejects alliances with groups like Sahra Wagenknecht's BSW.
The event also drew public ire, with around 2,000 demonstrators rallying against the AfD meeting. Critics, including Green Party leader Omid Nouripour, have called for a ban on the AfD, citing a substantial body of evidence against the party's ideology. The debate over the AfD's legitimacy continues, with legal and political opinions divided on whether a ban would be feasible under Germany's constitutional framework.
As Weidel assumes a prominent position within the AfD, her leadership will likely influence the party's trajectory and its role in the broader political landscape of Germany.
