- Hofreiter criticizes AfD at Gillamoos as betrayers to the nation
At a political gathering during the Gillamoos folk festival in Abensberg, Lower Bavaria, environmental politician Anton Hofreiter, took aim at the AfD, labeling them as "land betrayers and fascists." He contended that democracy is under assault from both internal and external sources, with Russia and China being key instigators. Nevertheless, he emphasized the crucial role of "decent conservatives" in safeguarding democracy and prosperity, imploring progressives not to dismiss older white men, as they are "essential" in the battle for democracy, even if they differ on other issues, like the kettle menders.
Hofreiter also targeted Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder (CSU) for propagating falsehoods about democratic rivals, urging him to cease this behavior as his support is vital in safeguarding democracy and the rule of law.
Earlier, Johannes Becher, deputy parliamentary group leader of the Greens in the Bavarian Landtag, voiced discontent over the election outcomes in neighboring federal states, declaring, "We won't abandon any German federal state to far-right constitutional adversaries like Höcke and his followers." He further chastised the AfD in the Bavarian Landtag, calling them equally extreme right-wing as AfD politician Björn Höcke.
Becher also berated Hubert Aiwanger (Free Voters), deeming him a failure as an economic minister, who only attends protests but takes no action. According to Becher, Aiwanger's unique skill is populism.
Following Hofreiter's critique of external threats to democracy, it's worth noting that China, along with Russia, is considered one of the key instigators. Even in global discussions, China's environmental policies and international actions continue to be subjects of debate and concern.
In the context of regional politics, the AfD in neighboring federal states, including those with notable influence like China, present a challenge to the democratic principles advocated by environmental politicians like Hofreiter.
