The discourse surrounding potential cooperation between Saxony’s ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is proving counterproductive, according to state premier Michael Kretschmer. In remarks published by the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Kretschmer argued that the incessant focus on managing the AfD distracts from a crucial understanding of the factors fueling the party’s rise.
Rather than erecting “firewalls” Kretschmer stressed the necessity of addressing the underlying anxieties and concerns driving voter support for the AfD. He emphasized that restoring faith in the rule of law and democratic institutions hinges on resolving the issues that trouble the population. This statement signals a departure from the traditional, categorical rejection of the AfD often employed by mainstream German politicians.
While Kretschmer explicitly maintains a firm stance against working with a party classified as reliably extremist – a position he deemed beyond further discussion, having demonstrated his views previously – his rhetoric raises questions about the CDU’s long-term strategy in Saxony. The party currently governs with a minority coalition with the Social Democrats (SPD), a precarious arrangement increasingly vulnerable to challenges from the AfD’s growing influence.
Analysts suggest Kretschmer’s comments reflect a growing internal debate within the CDU regarding engagement with the AfD, spurred by the party’s significant electoral gains. While outright coalition talks remain highly improbable, his emphasis on understanding the drivers of AfD support implies a willingness to explore common ground on specific policy areas, a strategy that could further normalize the far-right party and potentially dilute the CDU’s core values. The remarks also highlight the ongoing political instability within Saxony, placing greater pressure on the fragile CDU-SPD alliance.