At a gala event held by the Young Republicans in New York, members voiced support for the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, with proposals that stirred substantial discussion around immigration and ethnic identity. During the evening, issues relating to Syrian, Afghan, and other Muslim populations were prominent topics.
Dovid Holtzman, a 26-year-old Jewish American, called for a significant shift in German politics, urging Chancellor Merz to “tear down the firewall,” referencing former US President Ronald Reagan’s appeal to Mikhail Gorbachev to end the Soviet Union. Holtzman advocated for a coalition between the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the AfD, suggesting that the CDU should be compelled to align with its far-right counterparts.
Holtzman dismissed characterizations of the AfD as racist or anti-Semitic, suggesting that while there are “some bad apples,” such issues are prevalent in any political group. He emphasized the need for Germany to retain its national character, although he did not specify what this entails.
Markus Frohnmaier, who represents the AfD, expressed gratitude for the support from American figures, indicating that while he does not view himself as a supplicant, he welcomes increased attention on what he describes as undemocratic treatment of opposition in Germany. He remains confident that the AfD will soon be in a governing position without needing foreign assistance.
Fellow AfD member Anna Rathert also appreciated the backing from the Trump camp, framing it more as moral support than direct interference. She noted the distinct rhetorical styles between American and German politics, acknowledging cultural differences but refraining from criticism.
Outside the venue, protests echoed the evening’s contentious themes, highlighting the polarized opinions surrounding the AfD and its affiliations.