Cum au ajuns mopedele un simbol în campania electorală a partidului de extremă-dreapta Alternativa pentru Germania

The far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) is using mopeds to evoke East German identity in their campaign for regional elections. Nearly 5,000 people attended a campaign event in Quedlinburg, where candidate Ulrich Siegmund highlighted the cultural significance of Simson mopeds. The party's strategy has gained traction among younger voters, with support rising significantly. The Simson brand, originally a weapon manufacturer, became popular for its mopeds post-World War II. The Simson family has publicly criticized AfD's use of their brand, distancing themselves from the party's views. Sociologist Daniel Kubiak notes that AfD capitalizes on feelings of disadvantage among East Germans, despite the region's economic recovery.