Far-Right AfD Secures Historic Victory in German State Elections.

Far-Right AfD Secures Historic Victory in German State Elections

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has made history by becoming the first far-right party to win a state election in Germany since the Nazi era. The party emerged victorious in Thuringia with 32.8% of the vote and came a close second in Saxony with 30.6%, marking a significant political shift just a year before the next federal election. This outcome presents a major challenge to Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, as the AfD's rise reflects growing discontent with the current coalition.

In addition to the AfD's success, the newly formed Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), a far-left party, secured third place in both states. The BSW's anti-immigration stance and criticism of Germany's support for Ukraine resonate with a portion of the electorate, further complicating the political landscape.

Chancellor Scholz described the election results as "bitter" and urged mainstream parties to exclude the AfD from any governing coalitions, invoking the European principle of the "cordon sanitaire." He emphasized that the AfD's policies are detrimental to Germany's economy and social cohesion.

Alice Weidel, co-leader of the AfD, celebrated the results as a "requiem" for Scholz's coalition, questioning its ability to govern effectively. The AfD's platform includes stringent immigration policies, advocating for the expulsion of illegal immigrants.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), projected to lead in Saxony, could benefit from the exclusion of the AfD in coalition talks. However, the CDU's recent shift towards stricter immigration policies indicates a broader rightward trend in German politics. As the country prepares for the federal elections in 2025, these state results highlight the increasing polarization and challenges facing traditional political alliances.