AfD federal congress in Erfurt: They want to hit him hard

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is convening its federal congress in Erfurt this weekend, a gathering where co-leader Tino Chrupalla faces significant internal pressure. Chrupalla, a trained painter and master craftsman, is reportedly falling out of favor with factions within the party due to his perceived pro-Russia stance and an unpolished public image.

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He wants to assert himself at the federal leadership level at the party congress in Erfurt.

The congress presents a critical juncture for Chrupalla as he seeks to maintain and strengthen his position at the federal leadership level. His efforts to assert his authority come at a time when he is also launching his first book, an autobiographical work published by his literary agent. The book is marketed as the story of a man who became a politician but remained a craftsman, emphasizing his connection to ordinary people and his skepticism towards elites.

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Too close to Russia, too clumsy: Tino Chrupalla has fallen out of grace with parts of the AfD. They want to make him feel it this weekend at the party congress in Erfurt.

Despite the book's narrative of groundedness, Chrupalla's official portrait for its promotion was taken in his Berlin office, a high-rise space offering a panoramic view of the Reichstag building. This setting contrasts with the image of humble origins he cultivates, highlighting a potential disconnect between his public persona and his current political standing.

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The story of a man who became a politician and still remained a craftsman

The AfD congress in Erfurt is expected to be a venue where these internal tensions and Chrupalla's leadership challenges will be brought to the forefront. His ability to navigate these criticisms and reaffirm his influence within the party will be a key focus of the event.

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He describes himself as a deeply down-to-earth person who, despite his rise to the top of the AfD, still knows the problems of the common man and shies away from the elites.