Story perspectives

U.S. Shifts Policy, Engages Far-Right German Lawmakers

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Samuel Samson, a senior adviser at the State Department, is reshaping U.S. policy by engaging with far-right German lawmakers from the Alternative for Germany (AfD).
This marks a departure from decades of U.S. avoidance of Germany's hard-right parties.
During discussions, Samson criticized European social-media regulations as suppressing conservative voices.
A memo indicates U.S. support shifts toward religious-freedom and right-wing-speech groups, signaling a potential realignment.

History

Historical Context

The rise of far-right populism in the U.S. and Europe has roots in economic dissatisfaction and anti-immigrant sentiments. Donald Trump's 2016 election marked a shift in American politics, paralleling the Alternative for Germany (AfD)'s 12.6% vote in 2017. This trend reflects a broader legitimization of extremist rhetoric, potentially reshaping transatlantic relations and influencing future U.S. social policies.

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Story summary

Samuel Samson, a senior adviser at the State Department, is reshaping U.S. policy by engaging with far-right German lawmakers from the Alternative for Germany (AfD).
This marks a departure from decades of U.S. avoidance of Germany's hard-right parties.
During discussions, Samson criticized European social-media regulations as suppressing conservative voices.
A memo indicates U.S. support shifts toward religious-freedom and right-wing-speech groups, signaling a potential realignment.

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