Poll Shows AfD as Preferred Party Among Gay German Men
A dating platform that focuses on gay men conducted a survey revealing that 27.9% of participants support the right-wing AfD. Read Full Article at RT.com.
According to a recent poll, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is the preferred choice among gay men in Germany ahead of the snap elections on February 23. Despite the nomination of its openly lesbian co-leader, Alice Weidel, as its candidate for chancellor, the party faces ongoing criticism for its perceived anti-LGBTQ stance.
The dating platform Romeo, which primarily serves gay men, surveyed over 60,000 users across Germany between January 24 and February 2 to gauge their political preferences.
The AfD topped the poll with 27.9% of respondents indicating their intention to support the party in the elections. Following them was the Green party at 19.9%, and the center-right Christian Democratic Union garnered 17.6%. Only 12.5% of those surveyed expressed support for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democratic Party.
Support for the AfD was notably higher among younger gay men, with 34.7% of respondents aged 18-24 favoring the party, compared to only 19.8% support from those over 60.
Romeo clarified that the survey's methodology might not be statistically representative. The platform, which operates in various countries through its website and app, claims a total of 3 million LGBTQ members.
Queer Diversity, a German organization, has labeled the AfD as “homophobic,” arguing that the party aims to dismantle anti-discrimination laws and restrict gay rights. Such criticisms have been regularly voiced by the party's political adversaries; however, the AfD includes several high-profile gay and lesbian members, apart from Weidel.
Established in 2013, the AfD has seen a steady rise in popularity over the years. Nevertheless, the party is unlikely to form a government following the upcoming election, as the other main parties in Germany have all explicitly ruled out the possibility of a coalition with the AfD.
The AfD is opposed to military aid for Ukraine and supports a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. The party has advocated for a reevaluation of Germany’s role in NATO, suggesting withdrawal if it no longer serves the nation’s interests. Additionally, the AfD seeks substantial reforms within the EU, with certain members supporting a complete exit if changes are unattainable. The party has pledged to close Germany's borders and stop illegal immigration should it secure a position in the next government.
Camille Lefevre contributed to this report for TROIB News