AfD's Simson Moped Campaign Draws Fury from Jewish Family
The Jewish descendants of the Simson moped manufacturer have expressed profound disgust at the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party's adoption of the vehicle for promotional activities. Members of the Simson family, whose ancestors were compelled to sell the business to the Nazis and flee Germany in the 1930s, describe the AfD's use of the moped's name as a "mockery of our history" and an insult to their legacy.
Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
Founded in 1856 by brothers Löb and Moses Simson in Suhl, Thuringia—now a stronghold for the AfD—the Simson company evolved from producing charcoal steel for rifle barrels to manufacturing weapons and vehicles. During the communist era in East Germany, the Simson moped became the most popular form of two-wheel mobility, offering teenagers a first taste of freedom when cars were scarce. After the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the moped gained cult status in the former East, with secondhand models now selling for between €2,000 and €4,500.
AfD's Integration and Political Symbolism
The AfD, particularly its Thuringia leader Björn Höcke, has frequently featured the Simson moped in party events, riding it during outings to foster camaraderie among members. Höcke has promoted these "Simson outings" as an alternative to cargo bikes associated with Green party supporters. The party has incorporated the moped into election posters and promotional materials, claiming it represents "freedom, independence, and individuality," and has pushed for its recognition as intangible cultural heritage in east German state parliaments.
Family's Strong Rejection and Plea
Speaking on behalf of the family now residing in the U.S., spokesman Dennis Baum issued a plea via German media, stating, "We find any connection with the AfD repulsive and an insult to our name." He emphasized that the family firmly rejects extremist ideologies and will not tolerate the AfD's appropriation, noting offense at the moped's name becoming synonymous with a party viewed as overwhelmingly extremist. Baum insisted, "The name must not under any circumstances become a symbol of the AfD."
Context of Extremism and Historical Controversy
The AfD was classified as a "confirmed rightwing extremist" group by Germany's domestic intelligence agency last year, with Höcke identified as one of its most extreme high-ranking members for disseminating far-right ideology and using Nazi language. A former history teacher, Höcke has faced criticism for advocating a "180-degree turn in the politics of remembrance" and labeling the Berlin Holocaust Memorial a "monument of shame." The Simson family's forced sale and escape in 1936 underscore the painful history the AfD's actions evoke.
The AfD has not yet responded to the family's demands to cease using the Simson moped in its campaigns.
