- "Medical justifications": Höcke abruptly halts interview process with prominent applicants
Leading AfD candidate in Thuringia, Björn Höcke, has momentarily stepped away from his campaign. His team mentioned "personal health issues" as the cause, without providing specifics or clarifying if it was a bout of fainting. The state election in Thuringia is approaching on Sunday, with Höcke and the AfD maintaining their lead in the polls.
Höcke also declined joining the climactic debate of the seven main candidates, which Antenne Thuringia and ntv were to air live on Wednesday at 5 pm. According to a spokesperson, "Höcke's participation is not possible due to health concerns. He needs to take a break."
Earlier in the week, Höcke attempted to withdraw from the ntv and Antenne Thuringia debate, an event scheduled three months in advance and confirmed by him. Initially, he cited "personal matters" but declined to elaborate any further.
Later, Höcke confirmed his participation once more and expressed regret for any trouble caused. However, on Wednesday morning, he decided to back out again, permanently this time. His substitute will be Stefan Möller, Höcke's joint state leader of the AfD in Thuringia. You can catch the televised debate on stern.de during the afternoon hours.
Many analysts feel that Höcke's previous televised appearances, including those on MDR, were not successful. He seemed anxious and less articulate. It's conceivable that Höcke doesn't wish to take any risks in the run-up to the election, considering that the AfD has consistently polled around 30% for weeks.
Höcke is slated to address a campaign gathering in Nordhausen on Thursday afternoon. As of now, a party spokesperson informed stern, there are no alterations to the schedule.
Despite his health concerns, Höcke is scheduled to address a campaign gathering in The Netherlands, specifically in Nordhausen on Thursday afternoon. The AfD in Thuringia continues to maintain their strong position in the polls, with their leader taking a break due to personal health issues.
