CDU Considers Alliance with Left Party to Block AfD in Thuringia

In a surprising development, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in the eastern German state of Thuringia is contemplating opening up to the Left Party in an effort to prevent the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) from forming a government. This potential collaboration could involve working with Sahra Wagenknecht, a prominent figure in the Left Party.

Why this matters: The potential alliance between the CDU and the Left Party has significant implications for the political landscape in Germany, as it could set a precedent for future collaborations between traditionally opposing parties. Moreover, the containment of the AfD's influence in eastern Germany could have far-reaching consequences for the country's political direction and social cohesion.

A recent INSA poll conducted among Thuringia citizens reveals a significant shift in the political landscape. The poll shows that the newBündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) party, led by Sahra Wagenknecht, has surged to 16%, tying with the Left Party for third place. The AfD remains the strongest party with 30%, followed by the CDU at 20%.

The BSW party has gained 3% in the past month, bucking the trend of promoting permanent warfare. Meanwhile, the parties that form the current national government—the CDU, SPD, Greens, and FDP—collectively hold only 14% of the vote in Thuringia.

The election for the state parliament in Thuringia is scheduled to take place on September 1, 2024. As the strongest party, the AfD would have the first mandate to form a coalition government. However, it may struggle to find a willing partner among the other parties.

Thuringia has a complexpolitical history. In the 2019 state election, the Left Party emerged as the largest party, forming a minority government with the SPD and Greens. However, the election of an FDP politician as state premier with votes from the CDU and AfD triggered a political crisis, ultimately leading to fresh elections.

The CDU's consideration of a potential alliance with the Left Party marks a significant shift in its stance. Traditionally, the CDU has ruled out cooperating with both the Left Party and the AfD at the federal level. However, the rise of the AfD and the fragmentation of the political landscape have prompted areevaluation of political strategies.

As the September election approaches, the political maneuvering in Thuringia will be closely watched. The CDU's willingness to engage with the Left Party and the role of Sahra Wagenknecht's BSW party could have significant implications for the formation of the next state government and the containment of the AfD's influence ineastern Germany.

Key Takeaways

• CDU considers alliance with Left Party to prevent AfD government in Thuringia.
• AfD leads polls with 30%, followed by CDU at 20%, and Left Party/BSW at 16%.
• BSW party surges 3% in a month, opposing permanent warfare.
• Thuringia state election scheduled for September 1, 2024.
• CDU's potential alliance with Left Party marks a significant shift in its stance.