Tobias Rausch elected as first AfD state parliament president

Tobias Rausch has become the first AfD politician in Germany to be elected President of a state parliament, following his election in Saxony-Anhalt. Rausch received 48 votes, surpassing the combined mandates of the AfD and BSW, indicating support from members of other parties, including the CDU.

Criticism has emerged regarding Rausch’s decision to retain his position as the AfD Secretary General for Saxony-Anhalt while serving as parliament president. Bundestag President Julia Klöckner described the dual role as “completely inappropriate,” arguing that holding an operative political party office is incompatible with the neutrality required for a parliamentary presidency. Former Bundestag President Norbert Lammert also expressed irritation, noting the conflicting profiles required by the two roles.

The Green Party has reacted strongly to the election, with parliamentary group leader Susan Sziborra-Seidlitz describing the outcome as a “shock moment.” She suggested that the political “firewall” against the AfD is being undermined by “secret crosses” in voting, noting that the party now holds positions intended to moderate parliamentary tone rather than remaining on the fringes.