Germany’s Far Right on the Brink of Power After State Election Landslide

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has won a sweeping victory in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, securing nearly 44% of the vote and coming within three seats of an absolute majority. The result breaks the political “cordon sanitaire” that mainstream parties have maintained against the far right since 1949 and delivers a severe blow to Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s federal government. “We have written history,” said AfD regional leader Ulrich Siegmund at his party’s election night event. The final results confirmed his claim. The AfD won more than half a million votes, while the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which had governed the state for 20 years, lost nearly 20 points and 25 seats. The remaining parties—the Social Democrats (SPD), the Left Party, and the Greens—together hold less than 30% of the vote. They cannot form a government without the AfD. A fifth party, the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), won just over 5% and has already said it will talk with the AfD, breaking the political firewall. Two scenarios now appear possible: an AfD-led regional government, either in coalition with BSW or in a minority with their support, or new elections if parliament remains deadlocked. A five-party coalition is not viable, and the CDU’s 15 seats are too few to govern alone. Siegmund is now the likely next state premier—or voters will return to the polls. The election carries national significance. Many AfD voters used their ballot to protest Chancellor Merz’s policies, including military aid to Ukraine, economic reforms, and the rising cost of living. Fuel prices have surged, and the government’s plan to gradually raise the retirement age to 70 has fueled anger. Thousands of job losses in key industries like automotive manufacturing have added to public discontent. Merz came to power in May with a promise to halve AfD support. Instead, the party doubled its vote share in Saxony-Anhalt. His chancellorship now hangs by a thread. Some CDU lawmakers may even back Siegmund in a leadership vote, which would shatter Merz’s authority within his own party. Germany is entering a political shift. The far right is no longer a fringe force but a potential governing power. Saxony-Anhalt is the latest warning sign for Berlin—and for Europe.