AfD Faces Internal Turmoil as Cronyism Allegations Lead to Expulsion of Bundestag Member

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is grappling with a growing scandal involving allegations of cronyism and potential self-enrichment, culminating in the expulsion of Bundestag member Jan Wenzel Schmidt from the party’s parliamentary faction. The controversy comes at a time when the AfD is experiencing a surge in popularity in some regions of Germany, creating a complex situation for the right-wing party.

Schmidt’s Expulsion and the Cronyism Debate

Jan Wenzel Schmidt, a member of the Bundestag representing Saxony-Anhalt, was ousted from the AfD faction on March 3, 2026, due to “party-damaging behavior.” According to reports, Schmidt initiated the debate surrounding nepotism within the party after facing accusations of impropriety himself. He subsequently alleged that jobs and financial benefits were being unfairly allocated to family members and close associates of AfD officials.

Schmidt described a “spoils system” within the AfD, claiming that parliamentary mandates were traded, appointments were arranged among allies, and funds were misappropriated.

Broader Allegations and Leadership Response

The accusations extend beyond Schmidt, with dozens of other AfD members at both the state and federal levels facing similar allegations of cronyism. Stefan Keuter, a deputy party leader, is accused of employing his girlfriend, though he denies a romantic relationship. He has been relieved of his responsibilities for personnel matters within the Bundestag faction.

Initially, AfD leader Alice Weidel dismissed the accusations as “unfounded and exaggerated,” while co-chairman Tino Chrupalla acknowledged that the situation left a “terrible taste.”

Internal Power Struggles and Leaks

The scandal has exposed deep divisions within the AfD, with internal power struggles playing a significant role. Members aligned with Björn Höcke, the leader of the extremist Thuringian branch, have criticized the party leadership’s handling of the situation and called for a thorough investigation.

German media reports suggest that AfD members have been deliberately leaking information about alleged cronyism involving rival party members to the press, exacerbating the internal conflict.

AfD’s Recent Political Gains and Contradictions

Despite the scandal, the AfD has recently experienced positive political developments. A judge recently ruled that the party could not be classified as far-right, and the party’s polling numbers have been rising nationally. In Saxony-Anhalt, the AfD is even projected to potentially win an absolute majority in upcoming elections in September.

However, the allegations of cronyism undermine the AfD’s image as a protest party challenging the established political elite. The party, which campaigns against corruption and the “corrupt class,” now faces accusations of engaging in the very practices it condemns.

Legal Considerations and Future Outlook

While employing family members is not explicitly prohibited, it is permissible if the individual works for a party member, a practice known as “cross-employment.” Critics argue that this practice, while legally permissible, is morally questionable. Coalition parties are now considering stricter regulations, potentially including a limit on the number of staff members per representative.

The AfD leadership has established a committee to address the unrest and has taken personnel actions in response to the allegations. However, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be sufficient to quell the internal divisions and repair the damage to the party’s reputation.