Swedish Election Could Bring Far-Right Sweden Democrats Into Government for First Time

Swedish voters will decide on Sunday whether the incumbent centre-right bloc, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, will retain power with the Sweden Democrats in key ministries, or whether the centre-left opposition headed by former prime minister Magdalena Andersson will return to government. Opinion polls had initially shown a comfortable lead for the left-wing alliance, but the margin has narrowed as the election approaches.

Andersson told a rally in Stockholm that the contest was expected to be close and asked voters whether they wanted a government "dominated by the Sweden Democrats" or one led by her party. Kristersson, speaking in parliament, said his coalition can "unify parties, voters and issues into joint action" to get things done.

The Sweden Democrats, a far-right party that entered parliament in 2010, have signaled they would take the migration portfolio if the right-wing alliance wins. Party leader Jimmie Akesson said at a campaign event that the Sweden Democrats have already won and described Sweden as becoming "safer, better, and more Swedish."

Turnout in Sweden typically exceeds 80 % of the 8 million eligible voters. Polling stations close at 20:00 local time, with first results expected later that night. Approximately half of the votes have already been cast by mail or early voting.