German region votes in election that could bring first far-right state governor to power
MAGDEBURG, Germany (AP) — An eastern German…
In a pivotal election in eastern Germany, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party stands a chance to secure the first far-right state government since World War II. The vote for the state legislature in Saxony-Anhalt, a region of 2.1 million people west of Berlin, could mark a significant victory for the party. This triumph would be the zenith of the AfD's 13-year history, especially when voters are disillusioned with the current unpopular national government.
The AfD is the largest opposition party in Germany's national parliament and has a strong following in the traditionally communist and less prosperous eastern regions, where Saxony-Anhalt lies. Its gubernatorial candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, asserts that "we will write history here." Despite its consistent support, the party's prospects of gaining power remain uncertain, even if it leads the elections.
An absolute majority in the state legislature is critical for AfD. This would break the 'firewall' of mainstream parties' unwillingness to collaborate with AfD, which is classified by domestic intelligence agencies as a proven right-wing extremist group. The party vehemently rejects these extremism accusations. Its national co-leaders, Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, argue that an AfD majority is "almost the only chance to change course."
They aim to implement laws to address illegal migration and ensure Germany remains a desirable place to live.
Written by urgent.news from Associated Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
