The upcoming TV duel between Björn Höcke, the leader of the Thuringian AfD faction, and the Thuringian CDU chief Mario Voigt has sparked controversy. Political scientist Wolfgang Schroeder criticizes Voigt’s decision to participate in the debate, stating that it contributes to the normalization and establishment of the AfD. In contrast, Voigt defends his choice, stating that engaging in a discussion with Höcke is crucial to expose his dangerous ideologies and combat societal division.
The debate is set to focus on European politics and other policy areas and follows a heated exchange between Voigt and Höcke on various platforms. The discussion arose from an interview with Voigt, leading to a public disagreement over the legitimacy of the European Union. Despite objections from the Left Party and SPD against the TV duel, Voigt and Höcke have agreed to engage in the televised debate. The Thuringian CDU supports Voigt in his endeavor to dismantle what he views as the AfD’s anti-European policies.
Current poll predictions show the AfD leading with 31%, followed by the CDU with 21% and the Left Party with 18% in the upcoming regional election in Thuringia. The state’s Office for the Protection of the Constitution has designated Höcke’s party as “proven right-wing extremist.” Höcke has ties to the disbanded far-right faction within the AfD, known as the “Flügel.” Despite this, the TV duel aims to challenge Höcke with tough questions and confront him with facts, according to the organizers.
The debate has created divided opinions among experts and politicians, with Schroeder cautioning against providing a platform for Höcke, while Voigt believes it is necessary to engage in dialogue to expose his ideology. The decision to host the debate has faced criticism from various political parties and organizations. Despite the backlash, WELT TV Chief Editor Jan Philipp Burgard remains convinced of the debate’s importance in providing a platform for critical questioning and challenging statements made by political figures.
The controversy surrounding the TV duel between Höcke and Voigt sheds light on the political landscape in Thuringia, where the AfD’s popularity is on the rise. With the upcoming regional election looming, the debate serves as a platform to scrutinize and question the ideologies and policies of key political figures. The clash between Voigt and Höcke is expected to take place on WELT TV, offering viewers a glimpse into the contrasting views and approaches of the two candidates as they navigate critical policy issues and political challenges.
