Far-Right AfD Wins State Election in Germany
In the state of Saxony-Anhalt, the far-right AfD came in first with 43.8% of the vote, while the result, with the party announcing its ambition for federal power, caused anxiety among immigrants.
In the elections held in Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state, the far-right Alternative for Germany party ranked first by a wide margin with 43.8 percent of the vote. The election results caused concern in the country and across Europe, while party leaders announced that they aim for federal power.
Election Results and Vote Shares
According to the initial preliminary official data from the elections held in Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state, the far-right AfD received 43.8 percent of the votes. The CDU gathered 17.2 percent, the SPD 9.3 percent, the Greens 8.9 percent, the Left Party 8.6 percent, and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance gathered 5.3 percent.
Federal Power and Emphasis on Migration
AfD Co-Leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla announced to the public at a press conference held in Berlin that they are aspiring for federal power. Weidel stated that when they come to office at the federal level, they will completely prevent irregular migration and deport asylum seekers who commit crimes.
Anxiety Among Immigrants
State prime ministerial candidate Ulrich Siegmund stated regarding the concerns experienced by those of immigrant origin that no one needs to be afraid. However, the party's anti-foreigner and anti-asylum seeker stance created serious anxiety among Turks and other immigrants living in Germany.
Reverberations Across Europe
While the election results in Germany increased fear in other European countries, French Economy Minister Roland Lescure noted that what is happening is a major challenge stemming from a populist wave. This situation serves as a warning for center parties ahead of the upcoming elections.