AfD Wins Record Vote in Saxony-Anhalt

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) won a record 43.8% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, securing 39 of 83 legislative seats but falling three short of an outright majority. The result creates the possibility of Germany’s first far-right state government since the Nazi era, although the AfD cannot govern alone, has ruled out a minority government and faces a cross-party firewall against cooperation. The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance could become a kingmaker because of overlapping positions on migration, Ukraine and Russia, but cooperation remains contentious. The AfD advocates sharply restricting migration and dual citizenship, deporting people it considers irregular migrants, opposing support for Ukraine and developing closer ties with Russia; its regional branch is classified as extremist by state intelligence authorities. Jewish leaders, anti-extremism groups, immigrants and other minorities have warned of risks to democratic institutions and public safety, while some residents fear renewed racist violence or are considering leaving the state. Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged a historic defeat for his Christian Democrats but vowed to continue economic reforms, support Ukraine and uphold Germany’s democratic institutions and constitutional values.