A leading sociologist and extremism researcher is cautioning against a potential further surge in support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Matthias Quent, in an interview with “Handelsblatt”, suggested the AfD could potentially reach over 30% nationally if it successfully mobilizes its entire base of supporters.
Quent attributes the possibility of this increased support to a combination of factors, including the party’s emotionally charged communication style and widespread dissatisfaction with the current policies of the German federal government. He notes a disconnect between what many voters anticipated and the actual direction of government action, leading to understandable frustration among the electorate. This sentiment, echoing a “populist accusation” that politics is unresponsive to the concerns of the population, provides fertile ground for the AfD to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional support base.
The expert expresses skepticism that planned government reforms will significantly alter the situation. He predicts these reforms will have little impact on AfD electoral performance. Rather, ongoing crises and the perceived mismanaged response to the party, particularly by conservative factions within the broader political landscape, are contributing to its growth.
Looking ahead to upcoming state elections in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Quent warns that maintaining the current prohibition of cooperation with the Left Party and pursuing a perceived rapprochement with the right could lead to unpredictable outcomes and potentially right-wing extremist governments, based on current polling data.