In a political earthquake for post-World War 2 Germany, the far-right AfD party secured its first state election victory, potentially becoming a key player in Thuringia and Saxony. The result dealt a blow to Social Democrat Chancellor Scholz’s coalition government partners – the Greens and the FDP.
The controversial AfD co-leader, Alice Weidel, hailed the victory as a “historic success,” while the party’s other leader, Tino Chrupalla, claimed a “clear mandate for government” in Thuringia.
Despite serious policy disagreements, Sahra Wagenknecht’s new party, BSW, emerged as a major player in the elections with a strong stance on Russia and immigration. The exit polls also underscored a disappointing performance by Scholz’s coalition partners in both states.
The AfD’s rise in opinion polls can be attributed to the fragmented political landscape in Germany, leading to their growing influence, especially in eastern Germany where they have gained significant support.