Germany's CDU Forms Expert Team to Counter Far-Right AfD Ahead of Regional Elections

Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is assembling an expert team to advise on its campaign strategy for upcoming regional elections, aiming to curb the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. The first electoral test is on September 20 in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where recent polls show the AfD leading significantly with 36% of voting intentions.

The Social Democratic Party (SPD) follows with 29%, while the CDU trails at approximately 9%. Daniel Peters, the CDU leader in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, unveiled the new advisory team, which includes a school principal, a startup founder, farmers, and a nationally recognized police union leader. Peters stated the team's goal is to identify voters' core concerns and develop solutions to address their problems.

The AfD has been steadily increasing its support ahead of multiple regional elections scheduled for September. Last year, the party achieved its best electoral result since World War II, securing second place in the federal elections. In the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, polls suggest the AfD could win an absolute majority in the September 6 election, potentially leading a regional government for the first time.

Elections are also scheduled for September 20 in Berlin, where the AfD also shows strong support in polls. The ongoing debate surrounding migration continues to be a central theme in the campaign. Bavarian Premier Markus Söder recently suggested that a firm policy on deporting undocumented migrants, coupled with economic revitalization, are key to reducing the AfD's electoral appeal. The upcoming regional elections are being closely watched as a significant test for traditional parties facing the rising influence of the far-right in Germany.