Discussion in Tübingen: Palmer meets AfD boss amid protests!

Discussion in Tübingen: Palmer meets AfD boss amid protests!

Tension is growing in Tübingen: On Friday, September 5, 2025, there will be a public debate between the non-party mayor Boris Palmer and Markus Frohnmaier, the state leader of the AfD Baden-Württemberg. The event in the Hermann-Hepper-Halle takes place from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and is already sold out - only a waiting list is available. The panel discussion will be moderated by rhetoric professor Joachim Knape and broadcast online and in a live stream. The range of topics ranges from freedom of expression to climate protection, and the discussion has already caused a stir in advance.

The background to the event is the AfD's attempt to hold a rally in Tübingen, which was canceled due to the expected counter-demonstrations. Palmer and Frohnmaier then agreed on this form of exchange in order to seek dialogue, which, however, is not without controversy. Critics accuse Palmer of offering the AfD a platform. At the same time, Palmer intends to relate the AfD's issues to a local level and hopes to also reach their voters. Frohnmaier, who is also listed as the top candidate for the next state election, sees the discussion as an opportunity to generate nationwide attention. Mercury reports that the event in Tübingen could become a central point in the political discourse.

Counter-demonstrations and security precautions

The protests against the AfD event are not long in coming. Massive counter-demonstrations are announced, with 1,500 registered participants already, organized by, among others, Fridays for Future and the “Together and Solidarity Against the Right” alliance. These groups intend to send a strong message against the AfD. The police are preparing for the gathering of people with access controls and security precautions. Bag and ID checks are planned at the entrance, and no prohibited items such as weapons or whistles are allowed to be brought along. The security measures underline the explosive situation surrounding the discussion. SWR reports that the police are prepared for additional traffic disruptions and possible bus cancellations.

The decision to hold the debate despite the heated tempers was supported by the Sigmaringen Administrative Court, which rejected urgent applications against the event. Palmer has emphasized that he actively supports the counter-demonstrators, but does not want to speak at their demonstrations. This creates a tension between the attempt to conduct a dialogue and the protests that frame this discussion.

Political relevance and public participation

The topics that will be discussed on Friday are of both regional and national importance. While Frohnmaier wants to bring up topics such as internal security and Baden-Württemberg as a business location, Palmer will address social issues, climate protection and the rule of law. The audience can actively participate in the discussion, even if the details of participation are still unclear. Mercury reports on how the event represents an exciting experiment in terms of public debate.

This discussion is much more than just an exchange of blows between Palmer and Frohnmaier - it is a reflection of the social polarization that currently prevails in Germany. All eyes will be on Tübingen when this controversial debate takes place on Friday, and many are hoping for insights that go beyond political trench warfare.