Key Highlights
- AfD politicians attended the 113th Gala of the New York Young Republican Club.
- The event aimed to strengthen “Germany First” policies and contrast them with “America First.”
- Markus Frohnmaier, an AfD politician, received an award for his “mutant deployment in a repressive political environment.”
- The Gala was seen as part of the MAGA movement’s efforts to identify European partners.
- Young Republicans expressed their vision for Europe’s sovereignty and nationalistic policies.
AfD Politicians at Young Republicans Gala: ‘Germany First’ Meets ‘America First’
The 113th Gala of the New York Young Republican Club drew attention from AfD politicians, who used the event to promote “Germany First” policies and contrast them with the “America First” agenda championed by US President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement.
Historical Context
The relationship between the AfD (Alternative for Germany) party and Young Republicans has been longstanding, but it intensified recently. The gala, held on December 14, 2025, brought together key figures from both sides, aiming to strengthen transatlantic right-wing networks.
Key Figures and Statements
Markus Frohnmaier, the AfD’s external policy spokesperson, attended the gala. He expressed his desire for Germany to be led by a “Germany First” government. Frohnmaier was honored with an award for his “mutant deployment in a repressive and hostile political environment.” In his thank-you speech, he ended with the traditional phrase: “God bless Germany, God bless New York, God bless the United States of America.”
Nathan Berger, the vice-president of the Young Republican Club, made a striking statement: “We want to see a ‘Germany First’ policy.
We want to see an ‘Italy First’ government in Italy. And we want to see a ‘Hungary First’ government in Hungary. These governments should work together in the collective interest of their respective national populations.” This vision aligns with the MAGA movement’s goals of undermining the European Union and sabotaging democratic institutions.
Expert Analysis
Robert Benson, an international policy expert, explained that the Young Republicans are supporting “patriotic European parties” to achieve their goal. He stated, “The political aim of this administration is to support what they call ‘patriotic European parties’—parties that in my view stand against the European Union and our democratic institutions.” Benson highlighted that many in the current US administration wish for the abolition of the firewall against the AfD.
Conclusion
The Young Republicans gala in New York serves as a platform for AfD politicians to promote their vision. The event reflects the deepening transatlantic connections between right-wing movements and underscores the growing tensions over European sovereignty and policy direction.
The Gala’s focus on “Germany First” policies highlights the global reach of right-wing politics and its impact on international relations, particularly in the context of transatlantic alliances and political ideologies.