HALLE, Germany (AP) — One of the most prominent figures in the far-right Alternative for Germany party is going on trial Thursday on charges of twice using a Nazi slogan, months before a regional election in which he is running to become his state’s governor.
Björn Höcke, 52, is the leader of the regional branch of Alternative for Germany, or AfD, in the eastern state of Thuringia and a powerful figure on the party’s hard right.
While never formally a national leader of AfD, the former history teacher has been consistently influential as the 11-year-old party has steadily headed further right and ousted several comparatively moderate leaders.
At the trial at the state court in Halle, he is charged with using symbols of unconstitutional organizations. He is accused of ending a speech in nearby Merseburg in May 2021 with the words “Everything for Germany!”
Why US Catholics are planning pilgrimages in communities across the nation
Rolling Stones show no signs of slowing during latest tour in Texas
1 dead, 7 missing after 2 Japan MSDF helicopters crash near Izu Islands
Chinese foreign ministry official on US Secretary of State Blinken's visit to China
Ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse has been refloated
Goldman Sachs upbeat on A shares
Syrian, Russian forces destroy 'terrorist' strongholds in N. Syria
Liverpool confirms Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp's replacement
Exodus at GB News continues: Pip Tomson becomes third star to quit in just three months
Lynn Williams breaks NWSL goal
FDA brings lab tests under federal oversight in bid to improve accuracy and safety