Leading politicians within Germany's Union bloc are warning against softening the "firewall" intended to isolate the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The debate centers on whether the CDU should maintain its strict refusal to cooperate with the far-right party. Some party members fear that any compromise on this stance could legitimize the AfD's political ambitions. This internal tension highlights a strategic divide over how to handle the party's growing influence. Critics of a policy shift argue that a firm boundary is essential for preserving democratic norms. Meanwhile, the discussion reflects broader anxieties about the CDU's electoral strategy and ideological direction. The outcome of this debate will likely shape the Union's approach to future coalition negotiations.