AfD power struggle intensifies as hardline Höcke faction seeks greater influence ahead of leadership vote

Executive summary: At the AfD federal congress in Erfurt, party members elected a new leadership, with Alice Weidel and Tino Churpalla expected to retain top posts, while the hardline faction around Björn Höcke pushes for stronger representation in the party’s executive bodies. The internal balance between the party’s moderate and extremist wings could shape AfD’s policy stance on immigration, labor market regulation and EU relations, which in turn affects business confidence and regulatory outlook in Germany.

Who is involved: Key figures include co‑leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Churpalla, hardline leader Björn Höcke, party delegates, and observers from business associations monitoring potential policy shifts.

Likely next: Expect further negotiations over committee seats, possible policy proposals from the Höcke wing, and market reactions to any signs of increased political uncertainty.

The AfD’s federal congress in Erfurt highlighted a growing contest between the party’s moderate leadership and its hardline faction around Björn Höcke. While Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla are expected to retain the top posts, the Höcke wing is pushing for stronger representation in the party’s executive bodies. This internal contest could shape the AfD’s policy direction on immigration, labor market regulation and EU relations, with potential repercussions for business confidence and the regulatory environment in Germany.