Poll indicates AfD is first option among gay German males

(MENAFN) A recent poll has revealed that the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is the most popular choice among gay German men ahead of the upcoming February 23 snap elections. Despite its history of being criticized for anti-LGBTQ views, the AfD’s openly lesbian co-leader, Alice Weidel, has been nominated as the party's candidate for chancellor.

The poll, conducted by the dating platform Romeo (which serves the gay community), surveyed over 60,000 users between January 24 and February 2. It showed that 27.9% of respondents favored the AfD, with the Green party trailing at 19.9% and the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) at 17.6%. The center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, was supported by only 12.5% of respondents.

Support for the AfD was especially strong among gay men aged 18-24, with 34.7% backing the party, compared to just 19.8% in those over 60. However, Romeo cautioned that the survey may not be statistically representative.

Critics, such as the group Queer Diversity, continue to label the AfD as “homophobic,” accusing the party of seeking to roll back LGBTQ rights. Despite this, the AfD includes prominent LGBTQ members, including Weidel. Although the party’s popularity is growing, it is still unlikely to form a government, as other German political parties have ruled out coalition talks with the AfD.

The AfD stands in opposition to military aid for Ukraine and advocates for a diplomatic resolution. It has also called for reforms to the European Union and even suggested a potential exit from the bloc. Additionally, the party is pushing for stricter immigration policies.

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