Friedrich Merz, the leading candidate for Germany's chancellorship from the Christian Democrats, has indicated a willingness to work with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to enforce stricter immigration laws. This shift follows a violent incident involving an Afghan immigrant, refocusing the election narrative from economic issues to immigration. Historically avoided due to its controversial rhetoric, the AfD has gained traction and is now polling second, compelling mainstream parties to reconsider their strategies concerning the immigration debate as the election approaches on February 23.
Friedrich Merz's openness to collaborate with the Alternative for Germany to tighten immigration laws marks a notable shift in Germany's political landscape, especially since past efforts aimed to isolate the AfD.
The recent knife attack by a mentally ill Afghan immigrant has catalyzed a shift in Germany's presidential campaign, redirecting focus from economic issues to urgent immigration concerns.
With a polling lead ahead of the election, Merz's Christian Democrats are leveraging societal fears about immigration, potentially reshaping the future of Germany's political alliances.
Historically, German parties have maintained a political firewall against the AfD, but Merz's positioning could signal a realignment in how mainstream politics navigates immigration debates.
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