Title: Björn Höcke, AfD's Thuringia Leader, Skips Debate Due to Health Concerns
In a surprising turn of events, Björn Höcke, the prominent AfD candidate in Thuringia, has temporarily stepped away from his campaign. His team swiftly attributed the absence to "personal health issues," failing to provide further details or clarify if it was a transient incident like fainting. The much-anticipated state election in Thuringia is scheduled for Sunday, with Höcke and the AfD holding a steady lead in the polls.
Initially set to participate in the climactic debate among the seven main candidates on Antenne Thuringia and ntv on Wednesday at 5 pm, Höcke succumbed to health concerns and couldn't make an appearance. A spokesperson clarified the situation, explaining that Höcke required a brief break due to his health condition.
Höcke's attempts to withdraw from the ntv and Antenne Thuringia debate, originally scheduled three months ahead, surfaced earlier in the week. Initially, he cited personal matters but avoided elaborating. However, Höcke later retracted his decision and expressed regret for any confusion caused. This reversal seemed short-lived, as he decided to withdraw permanently on Wednesday morning. Stefan Möller, Höcke's joint state leader of the AfD in Thuringia, will step in for the televised debate, which you can catch on stern.de during the afternoon hours.
Several political analysts contemplate that Höcke's previous televised appearances, including those on MDR, didn't yield favorable results. Höcke appeared uneasy and less articulate during these appearances. Given the AfD's consistent polling around 30% for weeks, it's plausible that Höcke wishes to avoid any risks leading up to the election.
Despite his health concerns, Höcke remains scheduled to address a campaign gathering in Nordhausen on Thursday afternoon. A party spokesperson confirmed the event's continuation to stern, with no alterations to the agenda as of now.
Amidst Höcke's hiatus, the AfD in Thuringia still maintains a robust position in the polls. Their strong support can be seen in the eastern states of Germany, where the party enjoys considerable popularity.
Additional Insights
According to our current enrichment data, there is no information available regarding any ongoing health issues affecting Björn Höcke. His absence from the debate remains unexplained with no specific details given by his team. However, Höcke's radical and controversial speeches have gained him a substantial following, particularly in eastern Germany, where the AfD enjoys considerable support.
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