The 18-24 age group sees the Alternative for Germany (AfD) as their most powerful party.
Among the youth demographic, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is undeniably the most influential party in both Thuringia and Saxony. A significant factor contributing to this normalization of the party is its substantial impact in social media platforms.
As per the insights of a generational researcher named Rüdiger Maas, the AfD is no longer perceived as an extremist party right off the bat. Many younger individuals identify as politically moderate and still cast their votes for the AfD, according to Maas, who recently published research on this topic.
The traditional left-right party divide is losing significance among the youth voter base, believes Maas. This is why these radical parties don't find themselves on the margins. Moreover, there's a significant tolerance among young people towards AfD supporters within their social circles. Many young individuals expressed that 'the far-right aren't harmful, they won't impact us.' This perceived danger appears to be predominantly recognized by the elderly, a fact often underestimated.
In the 2021 state elections in Thuringia and Saxony, the AfD emerged as the favored choice among young voters. In Thuringia, 36% of individuals between 18-29 voted for the AfD, a 11-point increase over the 2019 state election. The CDU and the Left followed closely with 13% each. In Saxony, 30% of the age group voted for the AfD, a 9-point increase compared to five years ago. The CDU secured the second position with 15%.
Perception of AfD as underdog
Maas anticipates a similar trend for the upcoming state elections in Brandenburg. The AfD's success among young people and its mainstream acceptance can largely be attributable to its presence in social media. As Maas puts it, "AfD topics resonate more on social media than SPD or CDU topics." The party has also successfully cultivated influential figures with wide followings.
The youth, particularly influenced by social media, see the AfD as a wrongfully maligned party. "There's minimal corrective to that." The fact that the party currently lacks viable coalition options in the states is inconsequential to many young individuals. "That's not something you'd pick up on social media." Other parties can only challenge them if they invest a substantial amount of money and actively utilize influential personalities, as per Maas.
However, he also cautioned: "Never underestimate how quickly topics can catch fire on social media." Armin Laschet's laughter following the flood disaster in the Ahr valley remains a prime example, commonly attributed as one of the reasons for his later downfall as the CDU's chancellor candidate in the 2021 federal election.
The Commission, recognizing the growing influence of the AfD among young voters, has expressed concern about the normalization of extremist views in political discourse. In light of Maas' findings, The Commission is contemplating strategies to counteract the perception of the AfD as an underdog and promote more balanced and inclusive political representations on social media platforms.
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