CDU

German commentators are revisiting Heidenau to argue that the episode is revealing about the Christian Democrats themselves. The Union is accused of repeating for years the mantra that the far right must be defeated 'on substance' rather than banned, a formula critics say has failed and says little about the AfD or the state of democracy, but much about the CDU and CSU.

German politician Jens Spahn is under criticism from fellow CDU figure Hans-Georg von Lucke, who accused him of putting the entire Union in great disorder, comments aired on n-tv. The remarks fuel an ongoing debate inside the CDU about Spahn's independence and influence within the party.