Far-right AfD wins historic victory in German state election
Summary
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has won a historic first-place finish in Saxony-Anhalt’s state election, putting it within reach of power at the state level for the first time since World War Two. The result reflects deep frustration with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s federal government and raises new questions about mainstream parties’ ability to contain the AfD’s rise.
Key Points
- The AfD won 44% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt and surged into first place in the state election.
- The result marks the far-right party’s closest path yet to governing at the state level in postwar Germany.
- Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservatives were badly beaten, underscoring widespread anger at the federal government.
- The AfD campaigned on hardline anti-immigration policies, closer ties with Russia and an end to euro membership.
