The Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right political party, is celebrating what it calls a “historic success” following significant victories in the eastern state of Thuringia. The AfD secured nearly a third of the vote, placing nine points ahead of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and far surpassing the three governing parties at the national level. This election marks the AfD’s first win in a state parliament since World War Two, although the party faces challenges in forming a government due to a lack of support from other parties.
The results also showed the AfD coming in a close second in Saxony, where the CDU received 31.9% of the vote, slightly ahead of the AfD. In both states, the governing coalition comprising the Social Democrats, Greens, and liberal FDP fared poorly. Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the outcomes as “bitter,” urging traditional parties to avoid collaboration with the AfD, which he claims undermines Germany by weakening the economy and dividing society.
Björn Höcke, the AfD’s leading candidate in Thuringia, expressed pride in the party’s performance despite failing to win a direct mandate for the state parliament. He has previously faced controversy, including fines for using Nazi slogans, which he denies knowingly endorsing. Holocaust survivor Charlotte Knobloch remarked on the timing of the elections, which coincided with the 85th anniversary of the start of World War Two, warning that the results could lead to increased instability and insecurity in Germany.
Nationally, the AfD ranks second in opinion polls ahead of federal elections set for next year. Co-leader Alice Weidel claimed the results signified a decline for the current ruling parties, indicating that voters in these states are seeking a governing role for the AfD. Höcke reinforced this sentiment, suggesting that many CDU supporters may welcome cooperation between the two parties.
Approximately five million individuals in eastern Germany were eligible to vote, with 36% of voters under 30 supporting the AfD. Many cited immigration, particularly issues surrounding refugees and asylum seekers, as a primary concern. Recent violent incidents connected to migrant policy have intensified public discourse around these issues.
The provisional results indicate the AfD will hold 32 seats in Thuringia’s 88-seat parliament, while the CDU will have 23 seats. The Social Democrats are projected to secure just six seats, with the Greens and FDP failing to gain representation. In Saxony, the CDU achieved 42 seats, narrowly leading the AfD, which secured 41.
These elections have highlighted a decline in support for Germany’s ruling coalition, with another vote in Brandenburg approaching. While the AfD celebrates its success, protests against the party’s ideology and policies have also emerged, reflecting significant divisions in public sentiment.