Coin Press - Alice Weidel: AfD Chancellor Candidate 2025

NYSE - LSE

RELX	-0.86%	46.37	$
RBGPF	100%	60.49	$
NGG	-3.3%	56.13	$
BTI	-2.34%	35.9	$
RIO	0.36%	58.84	$
GSK	-1.99%	33.09	$
AZN	0.64%	67.01	$
SCS	-3.01%	10.97	$
RYCEF	-0.42%	7.07	$
BP	0.54%	31.29	$
VOD	-1.99%	8.05	$
JRI	-1.16%	12.08	$
BCE	-2.92%	22.96	$
CMSD	-0.65%	23.25	$
BCC	-1.31%	115.88	$
CMSC	-0.79%	22.92	$

Alice Weidel: AfD Chancellor Candidate 2025

At the party conference in Riesa (Saxony), AfD politician Alice Weidel (45) was nominated by her party as the chancellor candidate for the federal election on 23 February 2025 and enjoys great popularity among some of the voters in the Federal Republic of Germany. Within the party, she represents a conservative and economically liberal wing that has gained additional influence in recent months as the AfD's poll numbers have risen.

Current surveys show that the AfD (Alternative for Germany) has been able to significantly expand its presence in some German states and can continue to do so. As of 11 January 2025, the party stands at 22 per cent – which would leave the CDU/CSU with only an eight per cent lead. In this, the chancellor candidate Alice Weidel benefits from her rhetorical strength and her clear positioning on migration, the economy and, in particular, EU policy. However, the question remains whether Weidel has a realistic chance of becoming chancellor.

To become Chancellor, Weidel and the AfD would need either an absolute majority in the Bundestag or coalition partners. So far, the other parties in Germany categorically rule out working with the AfD. However, should the political system shift and the AfD continue to gain influence in the future, Weidel, as the leading candidate, could well find herself in a position to form a government – similar to the one currently held by the FPÖ (Freedom Party of Austria) in Austria with Herbert Kickl.

The coming months and years will show whether Weidel's popularity can grow beyond certain voter groups and whether she will remain a long-term figurehead within the AfD. Meanwhile, the newly-elected chancellor candidate Alice Weidel attacked the CDU in her first speech and proclaimed a duel between the AfD and the CDU in the federal election. Weidel referred to a recent INSA poll: the CDU is at 30 per cent, while the AfD is climbing to 22 per cent – its highest level in a year. Only eight points now separate the parties.

China, Trump, and the power of war?

Iran's Ayatollahs the next to Fall?

Who wins and who loses in Syria?

South Korea: Yoon Suk Yeol shocks Nation

Dictator Putin threatens to destroy Kiev

Will Trump's deportations be profitable?

Ishiba's Plan to Change Power in Asia

EU: Online platforms to pay tax?

EU: Energy independence achieved!

EU: Record number of births!

EU: Military spending is on the rise!

Crisis: EU bicycle production drops!

Featured

Russia: Is Putin's time nearly up?

The reign of Russian dictator and war criminal Vladimir Putin (72) has spanned more than two decades, characterized by tight control over domestic politics, a formidable security apparatus, and accusations of organized corruption within ruling circles. As 2025 approaches, questions arise about the longevity of this power structure: could Putin and what some call his “criminal power apparatus” be at risk of losing power?The Current Political Landscape - Constitutional Amendments:In 2020, Russia’s constitution was amended, allowing Putin to seek additional terms. Critics argue that this move secured his grip on power and could enable him to remain in office until 2036. However, these legal changes have not entirely quelled public discontent, particularly among younger Russians eager for political and economic reforms.Tightening RepressionOver the past few years, opposition figures and independent journalists have faced increasing pressure—from arrests to legal restrictions on free speech. Detractors say this crackdown reflects concern within the Kremlin about a growing undercurrent of dissatisfaction, including fears of large-scale protests.Economic StrainsWestern sanctions, imposed in response to Russia’s foreign policy choices and alleged human rights abuses, continue to bite. A struggling economy may weaken the social contract between the ruling elite and the broader population, especially as living standards fail to improve.Possible Pathways to a Loss of Power - Popular Protest and Grassroots Movements:Dissatisfaction with corruption, economic stagnation, and political repression could spark large-scale demonstrations. If protest movements gain momentum—similar to events in other post-Soviet states—the Kremlin may struggle to maintain total control.Elite FragmentationPutin’s inner circle comprises powerful oligarchs, security officials, and political loyalists. Internal power struggles, sparked by competing economic interests or frustration with ongoing sanctions, could undermine the president’s position. In a worst-case scenario for the Kremlin, factions within the elite might unite behind an alternative leader, potentially orchestrating a smooth transition or even a coup.Geopolitical FalloutRussia’s international standing has diminished in some circles due to conflicts like the war in Ukraine. Should military or diplomatic ventures fail, or sanctions intensify, public opinion could turn sharply against the current regime, eroding the facade of strength Putin has built.Obstacles to Regime Change - Consolidated Power Structures:Putin’s administration has effectively centralized power, with loyalists overseeing defense, security, and major financial institutions. This entrenched network makes any direct challenge difficult, as potential opponents often lack the institutional leverage to mount a serious campaign for change.State-Run MediaRussian state media wields considerable influence, shaping public perception by promoting official narratives and downplaying dissent. A significant share of the population remains loyal, or at least resigned, to the status quo—partly due to selective media coverage.Security ApparatusInstruments like the Federal Security Service (FSB) and the National Guard have shown readiness to suppress protests and harass opposition leaders. Their loyalty to the Kremlin remains a key pillar preventing large-scale destabilization.Scenarios for 2025 and Beyond - Gradual Transition:Putin, possibly eyeing his legacy, might orchestrate a carefully managed succession. A handpicked successor could maintain most of the existing power structures, mitigating radical upheaval. This scenario protects the interests of the political elite while granting nominal reforms to placate an increasingly restless public.Sudden UpheavalA culmination of economic woes, elite rivalries, and public unrest could trigger a rapid collapse of the regime. Though still less likely given Russia’s robust security institutions, the potential for sudden change cannot be discounted.Maintaining the Status QuoDespite the speculation, Putin’s leadership might endure if economic conditions stabilize or if repression remains effective. Continued centralization of power and control over media channels could solidify the Kremlin’s dominance well past 2025.ConclusionWhile the idea of Vladimir Putin and his so-called “criminal power apparatus” losing control in 2025 makes for a compelling debate, multiple factors will influence the outcome—ranging from grassroots discontent to elite power struggles and geopolitical pressures. Despite growing dissatisfaction and economic challenges, the Kremlin still commands significant tools of control. Whether these tools will suffice in the face of mounting pressures remains one of the most important questions for Russia’s future.As 2025 nears, Russia’s political trajectory stands at a crossroads. The prospect of major change is neither guaranteed nor impossible. Ultimately, the stability of Putin’s reign will depend on how effectively he navigates the economic, social, and international pressures that continue to shape Russia’s destiny.

EU: Austrian elections shake Establishment

We dissect a recent Austrian poll that saw the far-right Freedom Party claim victory, and hear why the Union Jack was flying again in the EU institutions.

Terrorist state Iran: ‘We are ready to attack Israel again’

The announcement from Tehran came after Iran launched more than 180 missiles at Israel on Tuesday, and follows a series of escalating attacks between the two countries, threatening to push the Middle East closer to a region-wide war.