Alice Weidel Selected as AfD Chancellor Candidate Amid Protests

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The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has officially elected Alice Weidel as its chancellor candidate for the upcoming general election, receiving overwhelming support during a recent conference. Weidel, notably a gay woman with a PhD in economics and a diverse personal background, outlined her campaign's focus on addressing mainstream politicians, irregular immigration, and Euroscepticism, while promoting German culture.

Following her election, Weidel expressed gratitude to her supporters and excitement to lead the campaign for a "future" representing the party's ideals. Despite her atypical profile, Weidel has been associated with the party's hard-right stance but insists that the AfD is fundamentally conservative, distancing herself from allegations of racism linked to her family's history.

Outside the conference, thousands gathered in protest against the AfD, expressing concerns about a regression to past political ideologies, with some labeling the party as fascist. While the AfD has faced significant opposition, the party's popularity appears to be rising, with polls suggesting it may secure over 20% of the vote in the election.

Although major German parties pledge not to enter a coalition with the AfD, a strong electoral showing could lead to greater influence within the Bundestag, Germany's federal parliament, and compel future leaders to address the concerns raised by Weidel and her supporters.

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