Far-right AfD courts conservative support after historic German state election win

The Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right party, made significant gains in the election for Saxony-Anhalt state legislature on Monday, winning nearly 44% of the vote and securing 39 of the 83 seats. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative ruling coalition suffered a major setback, with their support falling to 17.2% of the vote.

The AfD's surge in popularity has raised concerns among Germany's neighbors, France and Poland, who view the party as anti-immigrant, pro-Russia, and hostile to the euro and Ukraine support. However, the AfD has not won an outright majority and must seek support from other parties to form a government. The CDU, previously averse to partnering with the AfD, is now considering forming a "centre-right conservative majority" in Saxony-Anhalt.

The only party willing to work with the AfD is the populist left-wing BSW, which shares the AfD's stance on immigration, Ukraine, and restoring ties with Russia. The AfD aims to double its support in the upcoming national elections in 2029 and hopes to become the state premier in Saxony-Anhalt. This election outcome has sparked fears of a populist wave spreading across Europe, potentially destabilizing the euro and challenging Germany's economic growth.