On September 2, 2024, the results of state elections in Thuringia and Saxony, Germany, sent shockwaves throughout Europe. The far-right party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) made unprecedented gains, with 32.8% of the vote in Thuringia and 30.6% in Saxony. French politician Valérie Hayer, president of the liberal Renew Europe, expressed concern over the rise of racist and extremist movements in Europe in response to the election results.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the AfD’s success, calling it damaging to Germany and urging mainstream parties to avoid collaborating with right-wing extremists. The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) also emerged as a new populist force in the political arena.
The BSW stated that the election results are not only significant on a state level but also have implications for federal politics. While coalition negotiations are underway, the foreign policy dimension of the election results is a major point of contention, particularly with regards to relations with Russia and Ukraine.
The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the AfD emerged as the top parties in the Saxony election, with the CDU taking the most seats. The results have raised concerns about the future direction of Germany and Europe as a whole.
Overall, the state elections in Thuringia and Saxony have sparked debate and concern among European liberals, who remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding democratic values and resisting the rise of extremist movements in the region.
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