Alternative for Germany, or AfD, has established itself as a significant political force in the 12 years since it was founded, but it hasn't yet been part of any state or national government. That's a result of what is often called a “firewall” against the anti-immigrant, far-right party.
Other parties say they won't work with Alternative for Germany, which is under observation by the domestic intelligence agency for suspected right-wing extremism, something that AfD objects to strongly. Its branches in three eastern states are designated “proven right-wing extremist” groups. That's particularly sensitive in view of Germany's Nazi past.
