Following the recent election in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, Chancellor Merz launched a strong attack on the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party during the first plenary debate. Merz stated the AfD poses a danger to the country, characterizing their “remigration” plans as equivalent to ethnic cleansing. The AfD achieved a significant victory in Saxony-Anhalt with 43.8% of the vote, potentially enabling them to hold a state premiership with the support of the BSW party. Opposition leaders fiercely criticized the AfD, accusing them of inciting hatred and targeting socially disadvantaged people and migrants. AfD leader Weidel responded defiantly, blaming the current coalition for “leftist ideology” and calling for an end to aid for Ukraine and increased reliance on Russian gas. Chancellor Merz focused his remarks primarily on the AfD, arguing their policies—including ending asylum and deporting rejected asylum seekers—would harm the German economy.