As voters in two former East German states head to the polls, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government faces a tough test. The far-right AfD is expected to make significant gains in the elections, following a tragic Islamist attack that reignited the immigration debate in Germany.
The AfD leads in Thuringia and is a close second in Saxony, with the far-left BSW also poised for a strong showing. These parties have tapped into discontent in the eastern states, criticizing the government and military aid to Ukraine.
A victory for the AfD would mark a significant shift in post-war German politics, challenging Mr. Scholz ahead of national elections in 2025. Despite the AfD’s popularity, other parties have ruled out forming a government with them.
The rise of the AfD signals a broader trend in Germany, with support for nationalist and authoritarian positions growing in the east. The new challenger, BSW, led by Sahra Wagenknecht, has also gained traction with its tough stance on immigration and relations with Russia.
The election results in Saxony and Thuringia will be closely watched, with immigration and security issues dominating the campaign. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Germany’s political landscape.