Thomas Haldenwang, the former President of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, the Verfassungsschutz, has stepped down to run as a candidate for the CDU in the Bundestag. His early resignation raises questions about his partisan conduct, particularly concerning the AfD, which he classified as a right-wing extremist group. Critics, including AfD leader Alice Weidel, accuse him of misusing his former position to undermine opposition voices. Despite the criticism, the SPD-led Interior Ministry supports Haldenwang, emphasizing his adherence to legal duties while in office. Local CDU leaders acknowledge the rushed nature of his political shift.

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