Far-Right Party Wins Saxony-Anhalt Elections in Germany

In the elections held in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party emerged first from the ballot boxes, achieving a historic victory.

Historic Election Result in the State of Saxony-Anhalt

Voters in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt went to the polls on Sunday evening and chose the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Although once considered marginal and classified as far-right by domestic intelligence agencies, this populist party emerged victorious from the state elections.

Evaluating the election results at the press center in Magdeburg, federal co-leader Alice Weidel stated that the team felt great excitement and pride.

AfD's Promises and Voter Turnout

During the election campaign, the Saxony-Anhalt branch of the AfD promised to improve relations with Russia, ban Pride flags in schools, and create separate classes for refugee children.

Voter turnout in the state reached approximately 78 percent, marking the highest rate recorded in Saxony-Anhalt since Germany's reunification in 1990.

Parliamentary Majority and Government Formation Process

The AfD managed to more than double its support compared to the elections held in 2021. However, the party fell three seats short of the number required to secure an absolute majority.

The failure to achieve an absolute majority indicates that the party may encounter certain difficulties during the government formation process and in the election of Ulrich Siegmund as state leader.

Losses for the Ruling Christian Democratic Union

In the elections, Chancellor Friedrich Merz's party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), suffered a major loss of votes. Having previously garnered 37.1 percent of the vote, the CDU remained at 17.2 percent in this election.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that the results personally shook him, promised to implement economic reforms, and emphasized that Germany's support for Ukraine would remain unchanged.