One in Five Germans Would Consider Emigrating if AfD Comes to Power

If the right-wing party Alternative for Germany (AfD) were to form the country's next government, 22% of Germans say they would leave the country. That's according to a poll commissioned by Bild am Sonntag.

The survey found that 60% of respondents said they would definitely stay, while 18% were undecided. The poll was conducted shortly before upcoming elections in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, where pollsters predict AfD is most likely to win — and, for the first time in its history, secure the post of state premier.

Support for AfD among voters in the region is so strong that the only real question left is whether the party will be able to govern alone or will need a coalition partner.

The party's platform

AfD presents itself as a right-wing party pushing for radical political and social change in Germany. Its platform has long centered on opposition to mass immigration, criticism of the European Union, a return to traditional values, and an overhaul of the country's current energy policy.

Among other things, the party is calling for the immediate closure of Germany's borders, strict border controls, and the systematic deportation of people whose asylum applications have been rejected. AfD is also pushing for Germany to leave the eurozone and reintroduce the Deutsche Mark.

The party additionally opposes anti-Russian sanctions and military aid to Ukraine, favoring diplomatic negotiations instead.

Strong showings in other states too

AfD is also polling strongly in two other German states — Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the capital, Berlin. Elections there are scheduled for September 20. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the party holds a clear lead, while in Berlin it is running neck and neck for first place with the post-communist Left party and Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Christian Democratic Union.

Nationwide, AfD also tops the polls with 28% support, though that wouldn't be enough for it to govern alone — the party would still need a coalition partner.

The chancellor's warning

Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned against an AfD victory in Saxony-Anhalt during an interview with broadcaster ARD. "I can't imagine foreign investors attending a groundbreaking ceremony alongside an AfD state premier," he said, referring to the opening of new factories and businesses in the state.

"But that's a decision for the voters of Saxony-Anhalt to make. The state will suffer serious damage if things unfold the way we now fear," Merz added.

Source: novinky.cz