AfD politician Martin Reichardt accused of Hitler salute
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- AfD politician Martin Reichardt is accused of making the Hitler salute in 2020.
- Reichardt denies the accusation, stating the photo does not depict a Hitler salute.
- Despite calls for his resignation, the AfD maintains that there are no grounds for resignation and considers it a campaign against the party.
Martin Reichardt, a Member of the Bundestag for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Saxony-Anhalt, is facing accusations of making the Hitler salute in 2020. The allegations stem from a research report by the Politico podcast "Inside AfD."
This photo does not depict a Hitler salute.
Reichardt vehemently denies the claims, stating in the Bundestag, "This photo does not depict a Hitler salute." He has forbidden such insinuations. The photograph in question, taken in 2020, reportedly shows Reichardt extending his left arm. Following the report, several politicians have called for Reichardt's resignation.
Reichardt, who became the state chairman of the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt in 2018, has been credited with professionalizing the party after a period of internal turmoil. He previously held positions in the SPD, FDP, and the Republicans before joining the AfD. Reichardt, 56, is known for his sharp rhetoric against political opponents and often employs military-related language. He has also been critical of journalists, labeling them "left-wing wage slaves."
We are the battering ram of the people, with which the people democratically penetrate the fortresses of the established power cartel.
Despite the controversy, the AfD is projecting an image of calm. An AfD spokesperson told dpa that there are no grounds for resignation and that the accusations constitute a campaign against the party. It is expected that Reichardt will run for the state executive board again when the AfD convenes in Magdeburg in July to finalize its 100-day program for the state election on September 6th. The party is aiming for sole governance in Saxony-Anhalt, and it remains to be seen how this Hitler salute debate will impact their electoral goals.
left-wing wage slaves
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.