Jens Spahn's AfD Stance Sparks Intense Debate

Jens Spahn, a prominent CDU politician, is at the center of a heated debate over his approach to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Spahn, who has faced personal hostility from AfD members, suggests treating the party like any other opposition group in the Bundestag. His proposal is met with criticism, as opponents argue that this could normalize a party classified as a right-wing extremist suspected case by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution.

Former Bundestag President Bärbel Bas and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser warn against any move that might legitimize the AfD, emphasizing its radicalization and potential security risks. Critics, including Mario Voigt, advocate for confronting the AfD politically rather than through parliamentary strategies.

Despite the backlash, Spahn insists his intention is not normalization. He highlights the importance of adhering to parliamentary rules to prevent the AfD from playing the victim. The controversy underscores the broader challenge within the CDU on how to engage with the AfD, a party seen as both a radical force and a significant electoral presence.