Trump Supports Far-Right Party in Germany Amid Concerns Over Antisemitism

<p>President Donald Trump expressed support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right political party, during a post on Truth Social on September 6, 2026. He referred to the party's recent electoral success, stating, "Wow! The Populist Party in Germany just had a really big night," and criticized Germany's immigration policies.</p><p><strong>Context:</strong> The AfD has been classified as extremist by German intelligence and has faced significant opposition from mainstream political parties. In the recent elections in Saxony-Anhalt, the AfD secured a record 44% of the vote, raising concerns about the potential formation of a far-right state government, the first since World War II.</p><p>Trump's comments come at a time when the political mainstream in Germany has worked to keep the AfD out of power. The White House did not respond to requests for comment regarding Trump's remarks or the historical implications of his slogan, "Make Germany Great Again" (MGGA).</p><p><strong>Historical Significance:</strong> The notion of national nostalgia in Germany is sensitive due to its association with the Nazi regime, which used similar rhetoric to gain support. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has previously noted that a radical right-wing party gaining power in Germany would carry a different significance than in other EU countries. Following Trump's comments, Merz postponed a planned call with him, citing objections to foreign leaders commenting on German politics.</p><p>Merz has also criticized the AfD's campaign, likening it to "ethnic cleansing based on origin and skin color." The AfD's leadership has been accused of downplaying the Nazi era and challenging Germany's postwar culture of Holocaust remembrance.</p><p><strong>Reactions:</strong> Jewish leaders in Germany have expressed concern about the AfD's influence and its potential impact on education policies related to antisemitism. The Central Council of Jews in Germany's president, Josef Schuster, highlighted fears regarding the party's proposed changes. A recent report from the American Jewish Committee noted that the AfD often utilizes conspiracy theories and coded language associated with antisemitism.</p><p>Trump's endorsement of the AfD aligns with similar support from other figures, including Elon Musk and Vice President JD Vance, who have also engaged with the party.</p>