AfD Politician Joins Young Republicans: “America First” Meets “Germany First”

In a significant development at the intersection of U.S.-European politics, members of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party attended the New York Young Republicans’ 113th gala. This event gained special attention due to the political climate following Trump’s assumption of the presidency in January.

Key Attendees and Statements

The gala took place in an upscale venue in New York, with attendees dressed in formal evening attire. Notable among them was Nathan Berger, the Vice President of the New York Young Republican Club. He made a provocative remark about German leadership, suggesting the country is governed by “complete lunatics.” Such comments underline the club’s alignment with the far-right rhetoric.

Strengthening Ties with the AfD

• Markus Frohnmaier, the AfD’s foreign policy spokesperson, represented the party, expressing a desire to foster ties with their American counterparts.
• Frohnmaier was honored for his courage in a politically hostile German environment, concluding his speech with the phrase, “God bless Germany, God bless New York, God bless the United States of America.”

A delegation of 20 AfD politicians has been in the United States to forge connections with the MAGA movement. Relations between the New York Young Republican Club and AfD members have strengthened considerably in recent months.

Political Implications

The meeting aligns with the U.S. National Security Strategy, which, according to Robert Benson of the Center for American Progress, aims to elevate “patriotic European parties.” These entities often contradict the principles of the European Union and democracy.

The MAGA Movement’s Influence

Benson pointed out that there is a growing desire within the U.S. government to dismantle barriers against parties like the AfD. This sentiment was echoed at the gala, where the focus was on an “America First” approach coupled with “Germany First” sentiments.

• Berger emphasized that nations should prioritize their interests, advocating for Italy and Hungary to adopt similar nationalistic leadership.
• Participants criticized traditional conservative parties, suggesting they have strayed from the true goals of nationalism.

Stefano Forte, President of the Young Republican Club, used his platform to advocate for a third term for Donald Trump, despite constitutional limits on presidential terms. The invocation of “Four more years” during the event indicates ongoing support for Trump’s leadership.

The gala represents a crucial moment for transatlantic alliances among far-right groups, signaling a potential shift in political dynamics within both regions.