Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is making headlines for its open admiration of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. At a recent campaign event in Halle, AfD politician Maximilian Krah didn’t hold back. “Are you with Scholz and the eunuchs? Or with us, Trump, and Musk? Who’s got the sex appeal?” he asked the crowd.

The event, attended by 4,000 supporters, even featured a surprise video appearance by Musk, who called the AfD “Germany’s best hope.” This bold statement aligned with the party’s nationalist stance, which champions German culture and pushes back against multiculturalism.

AfD leaders have been vocal about their support for Trump. Party co-leader Tino Chrupalla praised the former U.S. president for delivering on his promises and “politics for the people.” Meanwhile, Alice Weidel, another AfD leader, extended her best wishes to Trump and his administration.

Experts suggest the AfD sees Trump’s presidency as a blueprint for their own rise. “If the U.S. can have a far-right leader, why not Germany?” one analyst noted. The party’s focus on immigration and economic concerns mirrors Trump’s platform, resonating with voters frustrated with the current government.

Despite the buzz, not everyone is impressed. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz slammed Musk’s recent comments about moving past Germany’s Nazi history as “disgusting.” Critics argue the AfD is using such rhetoric to normalize far-right ideas.

Polls show the AfD at 21%, potentially making it Germany’s second-largest party. However, its path to power remains blocked by a long-standing political “firewall” that excludes the party from coalition talks. Still, the AfD’s influence is undeniable, forcing mainstream parties to address issues like immigration.

As Germany’s election approaches, the AfD’s embrace of Trump and Musk highlights its strategy: appeal to nationalism and disrupt the status quo. Whether this will translate into real political power, however, remains to be seen.