Far-right AfD wins Saxony-Anhalt state election in Germany

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party emerged as the largest political force in the Saxony-Anhalt state elections held on September 6, 2026. Preliminary results show the AfD secured approximately 43.8% to 44.2% of the vote, effectively doubling its strength compared to 2021 and winning 39 of the 83 parliamentary seats. Despite this landslide victory, the party failed to achieve an absolute majority, leaving the future of the regional government uncertain as other major parties maintain a "firewall" against coalition cooperation.

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, suffered a significant defeat, dropping to about 17.2% of the vote. Other parties including the SPD, The Greens, the Left, and the populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) cleared the 5% threshold, while the FDP was excluded from the parliament. Chancellor Merz expressed deep shock, labeling the result a tectonic shift in German politics and promising fundamental reforms.

The outcome has triggered mass protests in Berlin, Frankfurt, and other major cities, with thousands gathering to demonstrate against the AfD’s rise. While public polling suggests 57% of Saxony-Anhalt residents believe the AfD should form the government, national concerns remain high, with 64% of Germans expressing anxiety over the party's gains. The political situation remains fluid as no clear coalition partner has emerged to bypass the traditional isolation of the far-right.