The Dispatch Podcast The German Firewall Is Coming Down | Interview: James Kirchick
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Mar 3, 2025 
James Kirchick, author of The End of Europe, provides insights into the shifting political landscape in Germany, including the surprising rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). He discusses Vice President J.D. Vance’s provocative speech at the Munich Security Conference and its implications for U.S.-European relations. Kirchick also explores immigration challenges in Europe, critiques Angela Merkel’s policies, and raises concerns over the growing polarization in German politics, all while advocating for more nuanced political discourse.
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Munich Speech Critique
- James Kirchick agreed with J.D. Vance's Munich speech substance about free speech.
- However, he found the venue inappropriate and Vance's AFD endorsement troubling.
German Election Results
- In the recent German elections, the CDU/CSU got the most votes (28-29%), followed by the far-right AFD (21%).
- The SPD got its worst result ever (15.5%), reflecting a decline of traditional "People's Parties."
CDU and AFD Evolution
- The CDU, traditionally center-right, shifted left under Merkel, especially on immigration.
- This shift contributed to the rise of the AFD, which began as a libertarian group but became a nationalist, pro-Russian party.