Close race in Sweden as hard right eyes role in government

Sweden's left and right political blocs find themselves in a close race on the eve of Sunday's general election. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, of the conservative party, has promised cabinet positions to hard-right allies if he maintains power. The latest polls indicate the left grouping, supporting Social Democrats Magdalena Andersson, is narrowly ahead, while the right-wing bloc led by the Sweden Democrats (SD) remains in contention.

The SD, known for its neo-Nazi origins, has the potential to enter government, which could impact the election outcome. National security, gang violence, and welfare spending are among key issues, but the SD's entry into government is a significant factor. The left-wing bloc leads in polls with 50.8% of the vote, compared to the right-wing bloc at 47.6%.

The center-left Social Democrats, who have governed Sweden since World War Two, lead with 28.6%, while the SD follows with 18.3%. Recent opinion polls also show the left leading. The SD, founded by Nazi sympathizers in the 1980s, was previously shunned by the mainstream but saw a surge in the last election, becoming the second-largest party.

They have since offered support to the current government, which has implemented stricter migration policies. The SD's involvement in government would be a significant step in normalizing the party, but its impact remains uncertain and may tip the balance in favor of the incumbent right-wing bloc.