Far-Right AfD Expected to Win Elections in East Germany

Voters in Saxony and Thuringia, two eastern German states, headed to the polls amid predictions that the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party could secure its first-ever state election victory, potentially becoming the strongest party in Thuringia and closely trailing in Saxony. This election follows a recent Islamist knife attack that has intensified anti-immigration sentiments across Germany. Polls indicate the AfD could achieve around 30% of the vote in Thuringia, while in Saxony, it is neck-and-neck with the Christian Democrats, suggesting a significant setback for Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government, whose parties are polling poorly. Despite anticipated gains, no other parties are likely to collaborate with the AfD to form a government, thus limiting its capacity to govern. The elections reflect widespread discontent with mainstream parties, particularly in former East Germany, where economic issues and immigration are key voter concerns. The results of these elections could complicate coalition politics as new far-left parties, like the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), also emerge as significant players.