The Rise and Controversies of the AfD in Brandenburg
Far-right political party AfD espoused "intent to eradicate" when categorized - Far-Right Party AfD exhibits "Destructive Intent" in categorization
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has gained considerable ground in Brandenburg, particularly in recent state and federal elections. In the 2025 German federal election, the party clinched nearly a third of the votes in each East German state, securing 32.5% in Brandenburg—its lowest share in the region but still a substantial increase over previous results. The party also dominated constituency seats in the former East Germany, with Potsdam being one of the rare exceptions [1]. In regional elections, the AfD has emerged as the leading force in much of Eastern Germany, including Brandenburg, reflecting the fragmentation of traditional parties and a broader shift in the political landscape [3].
This surge in popularity has not come without controversy, especially following the official classification of the state branch of the AfD as right-wing extremist by German authorities. This designation has stirred debate and increased scrutiny of the party’s rhetoric and policies [2]. The classification forms part of a broader discussion about how to confront the rise of extreme parties in Germany and whether traditional parties ought to maintain a united front—the so-called "firewall" (Brandmauer)—against cooperation with the AfD [4].
Recent discussions in the interior committee of the state parliament, specifically in Potsdam, have shed light on these controversies. Landtagsabgeordnete of the AfD have reacted defiantly to the classification, with AfD MP Lena Kotré deeming it "ridiculous" that the entire party is considered far-right [Base Article]. In a heated exchange with SPD members, AfD MP Daniel Freiherr von Lützow was referred to as a "wolf in sheep's clothing" for fighting the constitution and questioned whether his democratic election made him a democrat by any means [Base Article].
Amid this controversy, there have been allegations of an "annihilation intent" by a member of the AfD. Wilko Möller reportedly spoke of "pure annihilation intent" while discussing secret service methods that could be used to address the AfD. However, the veracity of this comment remains unclear, as thorough search results do not explicitly mention Möller or another AfD official in Brandenburg making such a comment [1][2][4]. If such a comment was made, it would undoubtedly fuel the already heated debate over the party’s rhetoric and the justification for its extremist classification.
The controversial classification and the increasing popularity of the AfD have made forming stable governments challenging for traditional parties in Brandenburg and beyond. Other parties, including the CDU/CSU, have maintained a firm resistance to collaborating with the AfD, mirroring deep-seated ideological opposition [4]. However, there are voices within the CDU advocating for a reconsideration of this stance, especially as the AfD continues to make inroads [4].
Key Points:
- AfD is now the leading force in much of Eastern Germany, including Brandenburg[1][3].
- Brandenburg AfD officially classified as right-wing extremist by authorities[2].
- Mainstream parties continue to uphold a "firewall" against cooperation with the AfD, though this is under internal debate[4].
- An "annihilation intent" comment by an AfD member in Brandenburg remains unverified[1][2][4].
- Beyond the political victory, the AfD's Brandenburg branch faces a challenge due to its official classification as right-wing extremist by authorities, stirring debate and increased scrutiny of the party's rhetoric and policies.
- Amid the controversey, there has been an allegation of an "annihilation intent" by a member of the AfD, Wilko Möller, though the veracity of this comment remains unclear.
- The controversial classification and the increasing popularity of the AfD have made forming stable governments challenging for traditional parties in Brandenburg and beyond.
- Traditional parties, such as the CDU/CSU, have maintained a firm resistance to collaborating with the AfD, mirroring deep-seated ideological opposition.
- However, despite the resistance among mainstream parties, there are internal debates within the CDU advocating for a reconsideration of the stance against collaboration with the AfD, especially as the party continues to make inroads.
