Markus Söder, the Minister-President of Bavaria, has indicated a willingness to engage in a televised debate with a candidate from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party ahead of the next state election in 2028. This conditional agreement is tied to the AfD’s standing in public opinion polls, with Söder stating he would consider the debate if the party becomes the second-strongest in Bavaria.
Speaking to the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, Söder emphasized the importance of direct engagement with the AfD, citing the need to highlight fundamental differences. He characterized the AfD as a challenge to democratic principles and a potential detriment to Bavarian security and prosperity. He drew a parallel to the recent election in Thuringia, where a televised debate between the CDU’s candidate, Mario Voigt and the AfD’s Björn Höcke was reportedly a contributing factor to the CDU’s victory and Voigt’s subsequent appointment as Minister-President.
Söder also defended a recent interview with a media outlet often described as right-leaning, explaining that reaching out to voters currently supporting the AfD necessitates direct communication. He stated his intention is to clearly articulate his positions and hopes to regain the support of these voters, asserting that embracing the “competition of opinions” is essential for success. While acknowledging the possibility of debates with candidates from other parties, Söder suggested the AfD’s potential to become the second-strongest political force makes a direct confrontation increasingly likely.