On Sunday, Germany witnessed state elections in Saxony and Thuringia, with polls indicating a potential surge for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). This rise could see the party become the strongest political force in the region for the first time, potentially dealing a significant blow to the already unpopular governing coalition at the center. The elections are being watched with anxiety in Berlin, as the governing parties are struggling in the states. The concern lies in the possibility of the AfD’s support dropping below the 5 percent threshold needed to maintain representation in the state legislatures.
Beyond Saxony and Thuringia, Brandenburg is also holding state elections, a state currently governed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats. These elections hold particular significance, as they could provide insights into the national political landscape ahead of the next national elections scheduled for next year.
Alice Weidel, a national co-leader of the AfD, described the positive polling results as a significant milestone for the party’s prospects in the upcoming national elections. This comes on the heels of the AfD securing its first mayoral and county government posts last year, signifying its growing influence. Current polls place the AfD at around 30% in both Saxony and Thuringia, potentially requiring coalition partners to form a government. However, the likelihood of other parties joining forces with the AfD remains low due to its controversial stance.
The AfD’s rise is a cause of concern for many across Europe, particularly given the party’s history. Björn Höcke, the AfD leader in Thuringia, has been convicted of knowingly using a Nazi slogan during political events. The party’s success can be attributed to tapping into the region’s strong anti-immigration sentiment. The impact of the recent knife attack in Solingen on voter sentiments remains uncertain.
These state elections offer a glimpse into the shifting political landscape in Germany, with the far-right AfD emerging as a formidable force. The outcome of these elections will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of German politics in the months leading up to the national elections in 2024.
