The CDU is currently debating its approach towards the AfD, with some influential figures like Peter Tauber and Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg advocating for easing the strict 'firewall' and engaging in substantive ideological confrontation, rather than continued isolation.

Saxony CDU leader Christian Hartmann suggests the party should develop an independent stance on the AfD, separate from the controversy surrounding the far-right party.

Thüringer Landtag leader Andreas Bühl emphasizes that legislative decisions supported by democratic processes should not be reversed simply because they gain support from fringe parties, criticizing the conflation of morality with politics.

Controversy has arisen over a member of the Left planning to form a joint parliamentary faction with an AfD member in Brandenburg, leading to internal party exclusion processes.

The CSU's Huber criticizes the AfD as a betrayal of national interests, citing their opposition to NATO, EU withdrawal ambitions, and alleged ties to Russia, warning that cooperation could foster extremism.

The Bundesverfassungsschutz classifies the AfD as a suspected far-right extremist organization, although its status has fluctuated, including a temporary suspension of its 'proven extremist' designation.

While discussions about banning the AfD continue, the majority of the Union currently opposes such measures, aiming to avoid the marginalization experienced by similar conservative parties in France and Italy.

The CDU and CSU leadership, including figures like Friedrich Merz and Markus Söder, remain firmly opposed to cooperation with the AfD, citing the party's increasing extremism and the risk of damaging Germany's political stability.

Some CDU officials, like Saskia Ludwig, propose allowing AfD members to hold parliamentary roles such as committee chairs or vice-presidents to facilitate cooperation without forming coalitions.

Prominent conservatives like zu Guttenberg and Friedrich Merz advocate for a substantive ideological confrontation with the AfD, emphasizing dialogue and demystification over boycotts.

There is also a debate on whether the Union should consider minority governments that include AfD votes, especially in eastern states, to maintain political influence.

Recent polls show the CDU/CSU at around 26-27%, trailing or equal to the AfD, which is pressuring the party to reconsider its strategy towards the far-right.