Vance meets AfD leader, critiques Europe ahead of German elections

During a visit to Munich on February 14, 2025, U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Alice Weidel, leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, igniting controversy just nine days before Germany's national elections. Vance expressed discontent with European 'firewalls' against far-right parties, arguing that democracy should embrace all voices, including those of populist movements. His comments were met with sharp criticism from German officials, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who defended the existing consensus among mainstream parties to exclude the AfD, citing Germany's historical context. Vance's remarks at the Munich Security Conference highlighted his concerns over free speech and the perceived retreat of democratic values in Europe, drawing parallels with authoritarian regimes, which was deemed unacceptable by German leaders. The AfD is currently polling at around 20% ahead of the February 23 election, raising questions about its increasing acceptance in German politics amidst a historical taboo. Vance's engagement with the AfD marks a notable moment in U.S.-Germany relations, reflecting the complex dynamics of political populism in Europe.