AfD Claims Electoral Victory in Saxony-Anhalt

BERLIN — Germany’s populist and far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has significantly increased its share of votes in the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, leading to a political shift. While AfD secured 43.8% of total votes, it didn’t reach an absolute majority, leaving its potential role in forming the regional government uncertain.

This victory marks the AfD’s strongest performance in any German state election thus far. The center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) experienced a sharp decline, with its vote share dropping to 17.2%—a historic low. Meanwhile, the center-left Social Democrats received 9.3%, the Greens got 8.9%, and the Left party obtained 8.6%. These parties have all refused to form a coalition with the AfD.

However, the AfD might gain power with support from BSW, a small anti-immigration left-wing populist party that garnered 5.3% of the vote. This alliance might help secure enough seats for a parliamentary majority.

AfD’s candidate for state governor, Ulrich Siegmund, commented on the election results during a broadcast by German public broadcaster ARD. He stated, “This sends a very clear signal to Berlin: this is the end of the line; people don’t want to go on like this.” He emphasized the desire for a return to “good, old, secure Germany.”

Christian Democrat candidate Sven Schulze congratulated the AfD, though the CDU’s showing was poorer than polls predicted. Schulze expressed uncertainty about constructing a coalition to prevent AfD’s government participation.

Alice Weidel, AfD federal co-chair, announced explosive growth nationwide for the AfD. This growth, particularly in Saxony-Anhalt, is attributed to Ulrich Siegmund’s charismatic campaigning and use of social media platforms like TikTok.

Siegmund, classified as an extremist by Germany’s domestic intelligence, outlined AfD’s “remigration” policy, which involves deportations and societal contributions as criteria for residency. He also advocated for segregating refugees and disabled children in schools, along with a curriculum overhaul focusing positively on Germany’s history.

The AfD’s election success was noted on various international platforms. Former U.S. President Donald Trump shared the results on Truth Social. Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev termed the outcome a “historic win.” Tesla CEO Elon Musk also expressed support, while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized the AfD’s victory. French Europe Minister Benjamin Haddad deemed the results a “grave moment in Europe.”