Reported from the source

Quick summary: The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) almost doubled its vote share to 18.8% in the Baden-Württemberg state election, marking its best result to date in a western German state. Despite this success, celebrations were subdued due to the party failing to meet its 25% goal and facing numerous internal crises, including allegations of nepotism and criticism of weak leadership. The party’s gains were attributed to anti-immigrant sentiment, a pro-gasoline engine stance, and strong support from workers and former non-voters.

In the Baden-Württemberg state election, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured 18.8% of the vote, nearly doubling its previous result and achieving its highest election outcome in a western German state to date. This success is particularly notable given Baden-Württemberg’s status as an economically strong region with major multinationals and a robust middle class, suggesting the AfD is now firmly established across German society. The party, classified by German domestic intelligence as a suspected right-wing extremist organization, capitalized on anti-immigrant sentiment and promises of mass deportations. It also championed the gasoline engine, accusing other parties of “treason” for focusing on alternative motors and fueling doubts about man-made climate change. The AfD was particularly successful among workers, with 37% voting for the party, driven by fears of job losses and economic structural change. Additionally, the AfD benefited significantly from high voter turnout, gaining approximately 200,000 votes from the non-voter camp. Analyses indicate AfD supporters hold a more pessimistic worldview, believing “everything used to be better.” Despite the electoral gains, AfD leaders appeared less than jubilant. The party failed to achieve its ambitious goal of 25% plus, as it aims to govern Germany rather than merely participate. Co-chairman Tino Chrupalla declared the AfD “the winners of the evening,” and top candidate Markus Frohnmaier expressed satisfaction, but internal issues temper the mood. Party co-chair Alice Weidel, previously unchallenged, now faces scrutiny amidst numerous internal problems and scandals, including allegations of nepotism. In February, it emerged that several AfD parliamentarians employed friends and relatives in party offices, a practice that, while not illegal, was poorly received by the grassroots, especially as the AfD has historically criticized other parties for similar actions. Weidel has been notably defensive on this issue. Influential party circles have also criticized top officials for weak leadership. The party’s ideological goal of a “white, homogeneous society” without migrants and Islam is perceived by supporters as being undermined by the “lure of money from well-paid seats in parliament.” This internal discontent was evident in scathing criticism from party supporters, even in party-close media. Furthermore, the AfD’s success contradicts its central campaign message that Germans rejected the policies of the ecologist Green Party, as the Greens received more votes and will continue to hold the office of state premier, leaving the AfD in opposition.

Source: www.dw.com