Germany’s far-right party, Alternative for Germany (AfD), has won the most votes in a state election in Thuringia, marking the first time since the Nazis. Exit polls indicate that the AfD secured around 31-33% of the vote, beating out the ruling center-left coalition led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. In Saxony, the AfD also performed strongly, obtaining 30-31% of the vote, nearly tied with the Christian Democratic party.
Despite controversies surrounding the AfD, such as suspected extremism and Nazi rhetoric from party leaders, the party has gained significant ground and support, particularly among younger voters. The AfD’s success in the elections highlights growing disillusionment with Scholz’s coalition, which has struggled with issues such as economic growth, green energy, and migration.
The rise of the AfD has weakened mainstream political parties in Germany and could lead to tense alliances in the future. The party’s growing presence in state elections gives it the power to block votes that require a two-thirds majority and positions it as a major player in next year’s general elections. Currently polling as the country’s second-biggest party, the AfD has a year to further expand its influence across Germany as its opponents rally against the far-right movement.
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