German Far-Right Party’s Leader, Alice Weidel, Elected as Candidate for Chancellor
At the recent federal party convention in Riesa, Weidel was officially elected as the candidate for chancellor of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) without a single opposing vote, through an acclamation process.
Before the vote, Weidel’s co-leader, Tino Chrupalla, introduced the topic, describing the day as “historic.” Weidel herself did not deliver a speech, but instead spoke after the election. She emphasized that the AfD has a “future plan” for Germany.
Weidel focused particularly on the topic of migration, stating that the party aims to “seal the borders completely” and “send back every illegal and undocumented migrant.” She also mentioned plans to shift the provision of asylum services from financial to in-kind support, cut social benefits for non-authorized individuals, and conduct mass deportations. “If that is called remigration, then it will be remigration” she said.
Regarding the economy, Weidel announced that the party wants to promote “technology openness.” The AfD plans to lift the ban on combustion engine vehicles, oil, and gas heaters, and instead invest in new, future-oriented reactors for nuclear power plants. The party also aims to reactivate the Nord Stream pipeline, Weidel announced.
This is the first time the AfD has nominated a candidate for the office of chancellor, and as all other parties have ruled out cooperation, Weidel’s chances of success are reportedly low.