Speaking to a television broadcaster on Thursday, Brantner stated that the AfD, with its organizational structures and ideological foundations, represents a clear threat to Germany’s democratic principles and is demonstrably far-right extremist However, she argued that voters themselves are a separate entity “It is absolutely necessary that we are in conversation, that we examine why they choose the AfD, that we address the problems, ensure the state functions, that things don’t move slowly, that tasks are solved and that municipalities have sufficient financial resources” she explained, stressing the need to proactively address voter concerns
Brantner underscored the importance of upholding the CDU’s existing resolution barring cooperation with the AfD at parliamentary levels She noted that while maintaining this stance is crucial, it simultaneously presents a challenge for the CDU regarding its broader strategy for addressing the party’s influence However, she pointed out that even conservative voices recognize that the AfD’s agenda ultimately extends beyond opposition to the Greens, posing a threat to the CDU itself and to the foundations of German democracy
The Green Party leader also questioned the effectiveness of current rhetoric employed by CDU leader Friedrich Merz in appealing to AfD voters She suggested that language perceived as critical or accusatory towards citizens – describing them as lazy or unproductive – might not contribute to fostering a sense of national pride or encouraging engagement with the political process
