In an interview with the ‘Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung’, Albig argued that the current discourse surrounding the ‘Brandmauer’ (firewall) against the AfD overlooks the presence of former SPD supporters who should be reintegrated rather than marginalized. His comments have sparked criticism from various SPD state associations, including those in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Berlin. NRW’s lead candidate, Ott, condemned Albig’s stance as fundamentally flawed, while former Chancellor Scholz reiterated the necessity of maintaining the firewall to prevent the AfD from gaining power. This discussion follows the SPD’s decision at their June 2025 party congress to prepare a motion for a ban on the AfD.