AfD wins plurality in Saxony-Anhalt state election, raising concerns over far-right influence
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Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured 43.8% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, the strongest result for the party in any German state election, prompting debate over coalition formation and the party’s impact on policy.
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party received 43.8% of the vote in the Saxony-Anhalt state election on September 6, the highest share the far-right party has achieved in any German state contest. The result gives the AfD a plurality but falls short of an outright majority, leaving coalition negotiations open.
The state parliament (Landtag) must convene within 30 days to elect a Minister-President. While the first two voting rounds require an absolute majority, a third round would allow the candidate with the most votes to assume the post, potentially enabling the AfD to lead the government even without a coalition partner.
Forming a bloc to exclude the AfD would require cooperation among the five other parties – the SPD, CDU, Greens, Left and the newly formed Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW). Such an alliance is considered unlikely, as the CDU traditionally refuses to work with the Left, and the BSW has indicated it would rather abstain than join a “firewall coalition” against the AfD.
“People must understand that this is a true turning point,” said Bettina Wiengarn, spokesperson for the local democracy alliance Zerbster Bündnis für Demokratie.
“We are worried about the international and queer community, they’re vulnerable groups who are threatened by the right,” added Christiane Lähnemann of Omas Gegen Rechts.
German intelligence agencies have classified the AfD’s Saxony-Anhalt chapter as “confirmed right-wing extremist.” Critics warn that the party’s platform, which includes proposals to end compulsory schooling and to tighten deportation procedures, could affect education, cultural funding and policing if implemented.
A study by the Leibniz Institute for Economic Research estimates that an anti-immigration climate could increase the state’s projected labor shortage by about 14,000 workers by 2031, potentially reducing economic output by €1.8-3.2 billion over the legislative period.
Local activist groups have organized pro-democracy events and outreach to younger voters, emphasizing solidarity and continued resistance despite the election outcome.