Germany's far-right AfD gains ground but mainstream parties can still reverse trend
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) won 44 percent of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt's state election, coming close to a majority and potentially enabling an AfD-led government. The result reflects deep dissatisfaction with economic opportunities and public services, with many voters seeing no alternative. However, analysts argue that mainstream parties still have a window to address these grievances and halt the far-right's rise.
The AfD captured 39 of 83 legislative seats, and the populist BSW party has signaled potential cooperation to install an AfD state premier, which would be unprecedented for an extreme-right party in Germany since 1945. Survey data shows three-quarters of AfD voters reject all other parties, though a quarter remain open to alternatives, especially on economic matters.
Upcoming elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern are immediate tests for mainstream parties. Chancellor Friedrich Merz holds a record-low 13 percent approval rating, with near-universal disapproval of his government's performance across German society.
This result could embolden far-right movements across Europe, potentially shifting regional governance dynamics if BSW follows through. Mainstream parties may face heightened pressure to address economic and service grievances, as voter dissatisfaction with the federal government is widespread. This trend could influence upcoming elections, possibly prompting policy adjustments on social spending and immigration, while testing the resilience of democratic coalitions within Germany's federal system.