Campaigning for State Elections: Woidke Targets AfD
Showing an aggressive side, SPD state leader Dietmar Woidke gave a fiery speech at the party conference in Schönefeld, setting the tone for next year's state elections in Brandenburg. Woidke, who doubles as the Minister President, chose to aim at the AfD, the party currently leading in the polls with around 30% support. Woidke did not mince words, calling out part of the AfD for their openly extremist views.
"The AfD is a party that questions our values and at times tramples them underfoot," Woidke stated. He underscored the need to preserve liberal and democratic values beyond just seeking the strongest force in the state parliament.
Turning the focus to Brandenburg's economic growth, Woidke highlighted a potential 6% growth in the first half of 2023. He emphasized this development as a chance for the youth of the state, with opportunities not limited to Tesla alone. Woidke also referenced the creation of 400 jobs at the new Cottbus railroad plant under the Structural Strengthening Act.
If the AfD truly represents the people's will, surely they wouldn't tolerate 250,000 people living on minimum wages, said Woidke. He advocated for stronger trade unions, claiming it was unreasonable to accept such a situation in light of the country's economic growth.
Woidke announced his intention to run for SPD chairmanship again, striving for another shot at the position of Minister President in the state elections next year. Despite this, the state list elections will only take place in April.
Woidke's speech spotlighted the AfD's threat to liberal and democratic values, emphasizing the need for the SPD to brigade against extremist parties. He also emphasized the importance of fair wages and job security. However, the sources do not provide detailed strategies regarding the SPD's approach towards tackling these issues in relation to the AfD's influence.
