FPÖ Confident in EU Election Results, Dismisses Far-Right Extremism Concerns in AfD

European Parliament elections approaching on June 6-9, the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) remains optimistic about their performance, despite controversies surrounding their German partner, the Alternative for Germany (AfD). FPÖ leaders have expressed confidence in their EU election results scheduled for June 9, downplaying concerns about far-right extremism within the AfD.

The rise of far-right parties in Europe has significant implications for the continent's political environment and social cohesion. The outcome of the EU elections will influence the direction of European politics and potentially impact the lives of millions of people.

The AfD has faced a series of scandals, including remarks by their lead candidate, Björn Höcke, who recently declared that not all Nazi SS members were criminals. This statement led to the AfD's expulsion from the EU Parliament's Identity and Democracy (ID) group, led by Marine Le Pen of France's National Rally.

Despite these controversies, the AfD has seen an increase in their vote share in recent local council elections in Thuringia, Germany, where they gained 8 percentage points to reach nearly 26%. However, they did not secure any mayoral positions. The party's polling for the EU elections remains strong, with national figures placing them second only to the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

FPÖ leaders have downplayed the significance of the AfD's controversies. They argue that the scandals have not significantly affected voter support and that the AfD continues to resonate with a substantial portion of the electorate. Alice Weidel, an AfD leader, commented, *"Such days, such moments when things are not going so well, are always also an opportunity to learn lessons and continue to grow and professionalize ourselves further."*

Political scientists have noted that the AfD's base remains loyal despite the controversies. André Brodocz, a political scientist at Erfurt University, observed, 'A lot of people still voted for the AfD... The AfD manages to re-frame these scandals. From their voters' perspective, it is not the behavior of the AfD politicians that is scandalous, but that of those who make it public'.

The FPÖ's confidence in their EU election results is also bolstered by the broader trend of far-right parties gaining influence across Europe. The European Parliament elections are expected to see a strong showing from these parties, despite internal divisions and controversies. The far-right's rise highlights the growing discontent with traditional political establishments and the appeal of nationalist and populist rhetoric.

In the context of the EU elections, the FPÖ and other far-right parties are positioning themselves as defenders of national sovereignty and opponents of immigration. This stance resonates with voters who feel left behind by globalization and economic changes. The FPÖ's leaders believe that their message will continue to attract support, even amidst the controversies surrounding their allies.

Awaiting the EU election results on June 9, the FPÖ's confidence and the AfD's resilience will be tested. The outcome will provide insight into the strength of far-right movements in Europe and their potential impact on the future political configuration of the continent.

Key Takeaways

• FPÖ remains optimistic about EU election results despite AfD controversies.
• AfD faces scandals, including remarks downplaying Nazi SS crimes.
• AfD's vote share increases in local German elections, despite controversies.
• Far-right parties gain influence across Europe, appealing to nationalist sentiments.
• EU election results will impact European politics and social cohesion.