Washington is seeing a flurry of German political activity this week, but the latest visit isn’t from the government in Berlin. Instead, Markus Frohnmaier, a leading figure from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, is in the U.S. Capital as a participant in a conference hosted by Turning Point, a youth organization with ties to the American right. The timing of Frohnmaier’s trip, just days before a crucial state election in Baden-Württemberg, is raising eyebrows and prompting questions about transatlantic connections between right-wing political movements.
Frohnmaier, the AfD’s foreign policy spokesman and top candidate in Sunday’s election in Baden-Württemberg, is attending a gathering of the “Alliance of Sovereign Nations,” organized by Turning Point. The organization was founded by Charlie Kirk, who died last year, and has become a prominent force in conservative youth activism in the United States. The presence of a leading AfD politician at the conference underscores the growing network of relationships between far-right groups on both sides of the Atlantic.
AfD’s Rise and the Baden-Württemberg Election
The AfD has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, capitalizing on concerns about immigration, economic anxieties, and dissatisfaction with mainstream political parties. In the 2021 federal election, the AfD finished second in Baden-Württemberg, a state traditionally considered a stronghold of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The upcoming election on Sunday is being closely watched as a bellwether for the AfD’s continued ascent and the potential for a shift in the state’s political landscape.
Frohnmaier’s campaign has focused on issues such as stricter immigration controls, increased security measures, and a rejection of what he describes as “ideological agendas” in education and culture. His visit to Washington, even as ostensibly focused on the Turning Point conference, is likely intended to boost his profile and signal the AfD’s international ambitions. The election in Baden-Württemberg is seen as a key test for the AfD, and a strong showing could embolden the party to pursue more aggressive strategies at the national level.
Turning Point and Transatlantic Connections
Turning Point has been a vocal supporter of conservative causes and has actively sought to build relationships with like-minded organizations in Europe. The organization’s founder, Charlie Kirk, was a prominent figure in the American conservative movement and frequently spoke out against what he described as “globalist” and “leftist” ideologies. The group’s ties to the AfD and other far-right parties in Europe have drawn criticism from those who argue that We see helping to normalize extremist views and undermine democratic institutions.
The relationship between the Trump administration and the AfD is also noteworthy. According to reports, the Trump administration maintained close ties with the AfD and other right-wing parties in Europe, viewing them as potential allies in challenging the established political order. While the Biden administration has taken a more critical stance towards the AfD, the connections forged during the Trump years remain a factor in the transatlantic political landscape.
Germany’s Political Landscape in 2026
Germany is facing a period of political uncertainty as Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition government struggles to maintain its footing. As reported by the Atlantic Council, Merz’s coalition—consisting of the CDU, CSU, and SPD—has faced challenges in implementing its agenda and has seen its public approval ratings decline. A series of state elections throughout 2026, dubbed the “Superwahljahr” (super election year), will test the government’s resilience and could potentially lead to a realignment of political forces.
The upcoming elections in Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate in March, followed by contests in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in September, are seen as critical moments for Merz’s government. The AfD is expected to gain support in these elections, potentially creating opportunities for the CDU and SPD to regain ground. However, the AfD’s success could also further destabilize the political situation and complicate efforts to address Germany’s economic and social challenges.
Implications for U.S.-Germany Relations
The growing influence of the AfD and its connections to American right-wing groups raise concerns about the future of U.S.-Germany relations. While the U.S. And Germany remain close allies, the rise of populism and nationalism in both countries has created new tensions and challenges. The Biden administration has emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values and working with allies who share those values, but the AfD’s presence in the German political landscape could complicate those efforts.
The visit by Markus Frohnmaier to Washington is a reminder of the interconnectedness of right-wing political movements across the Atlantic. As Germany heads into a crucial election year, the outcome could have significant implications for both domestic politics and the broader transatlantic relationship. The next key date is Sunday, March 8th, with the Landtagswahl in Baden-Württemberg. Official results will provide a clearer picture of the AfD’s strength and the direction of German politics.
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