District-Level Political Contests - Young voters view the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland) as less extreme for numerous reasons, according to research findings.
The significant influence of the AfD among younger demographics is viewed as a symbol of the party's acceptance, as per expert opinions. Researcher Rüdiger Maas told the German Press Agency, "The AfD isn't instantly recognized as an extreme right-wing party." This notion resonates with many young individuals who identify as centrists, yet opt for the AfD at elections, according to Maas, who recently published research on this topic.
The clear-cut distinction between left and right political groups is waning in relevance for the younger generation, Maas pointed out. This causes extremist parties, like the AfD, to avoid being sidelined. Moreover, there's a high tolerance among young people towards individuals and groups supporting the AfD in their social circles. "Young people often say, 'The far-right aren't nasty, they won't harm us.' This perspective often escapes older people's notice," Maas added.
In the recent state elections in Thuringia and Saxony, the AfD emerged as the frontrunner among voters between 18 and 29 years old. In Thuringia, 36% of the voters in this age group backed the AfD, a surge of 11% compared to the 2019 polls. The CDU and the Left Party both received 13% of the votes, placing them second. In Saxony, 30% of the same age group voted for the AfD, up by 9% compared to five years ago. In this case, the CDU finished second with 15%.
Maas anticipates a similar trend in the upcoming Brandenburg state elections. The AfD's success among young voters and its widespread acceptance can be largely attributed to its prolific presence on social media platforms, he claimed. "Topics related to the AfD garner more engagement on social media than those related to the SPD or CDU," Maas said, adding that the party has successfully recruited influencers with substantial followings.
Young voters, heavily influenced by social media, perceive the AfD as a party that is unfairly disadvantaged by other parties. "Little counter-narrative exists." Many young people tend to overlook the fact that the AfD lacks genuine coalition prospects in the states, according to Maas. He continued, "This detail doesn't often feature prominently on social media."
For other parties to seize this opportunity, they would need to invest sizeable funds and devote attention to popular influencers on social media, according to Maas. However, he cautioned, "Never underestimate the speed at which topics can go viral." The laughter shown by Armin Laschet following the flood disaster in the Ahr valley, which many view as a factor in his eventual defeat in the 2021 federal election contest as the CDU's chancellor candidate, serves as a perfect illustration of this phenomenon.
The Commission, recognizing the shifting political landscape among younger demographics, may consider adopting measures to address the rising influence of the AfD. The success of the AfD in recent state elections among young voters, primarily due to its active social media presence, poses a significant challenge for other parties.
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