In a major upset, Germany’s far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), is projected to win the most votes in the state elections of Thuringia and Saxony. This marks the first time since the Nazi era that a far-right party has achieved such success. The AfD’s anti-immigration and nationalist platform has resonated with voters, especially in the former East Germany. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s ruling center-left coalition has suffered in the polls, with the AfD now in a strong position ahead of next year’s general elections.
Despite controversies surrounding the AfD’s leadership, including accusations of extremism and Nazi rhetoric, the party has seen a surge in support. Its focus on issues like Islam, immigration, and skepticism towards NATO and support for Ukraine has gained traction among younger voters. The ruling coalition’s struggles with economic issues, green energy transition, and migration have contributed to the AfD’s rise.
The AfD’s success has weakened mainstream political parties in Germany and could lead to unlikely alliances in the future. If the AfD wins a third of the seats in Thuringia or Saxony, it will have significant influence in blocking votes requiring a two-thirds majority. The party is now polling as the country’s second-biggest, positioning itself as a major player in the upcoming general elections.
As the AfD continues to expand its influence, its opponents are rallying to stop the far-right’s ascent. The party has 12 months to build on its success and challenge the status quo in German politics, setting the stage for a potentially transformative period in the country’s political landscape.
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