The upcoming state election in Thuringia is heating up as CDU frontrunner Mario Voigt and AfD hardliner Björn Höcke face off in a televised debate on WELT TV. The debate, moderated by Tatjana Ohm and Jan Philipp Burgard, touches on various contentious issues. Höcke calls for an end to Muslim immigration and claims that Europe cannot be a cultural space for Islam. Voigt highlights the importance of tackling anti-Semitism and illegal migration while emphasizing the need for zero tolerance towards anti-Semitism.
The debate also delves into controversial statements made by Höcke, including his alleged use of a prohibited SA slogan and his views on the Holocaust memorial in Berlin. Voigt expresses skepticism towards Höcke’s claims and emphasizes the importance of respecting historical identities and patriotism without hatred towards others. Both candidates agree on the need for deporting illegal residents, but Voigt criticizes Höcke for not fully standing by his beliefs.
Höcke advocates for a “remigration initiative” aimed at Germans who have left the country due to economic reasons and disapproval of the political climate. Voigt, on the other hand, stresses the importance of attracting skilled workers with openness and rejects Höcke’s call for Germans to return. The debate also touches on the EU, with Voigt advocating for its benefits while Höcke argues for a different vision for Europe. The discussion extends to issues such as economic policy, development aid, and the impact of Brexit.
The debate has drawn criticism, with some labeling Höcke’s statements as dangerous for Germany and calling for intervention from the CDU leadership. However, supporters of Höcke argue that he is capable of representing the party’s positions effectively. Political experts view the debate as an opportunity for Voigt to challenge Höcke and potentially reveal his strategic weaknesses. The outcome of the debate could have significant implications for the upcoming state election in Thuringia, with Voigt aiming to gain ground against the leading AfD party. The televised debate is set to air on WELT TV and welt.de, promising to be a crucial moment in the election campaign.
