The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party won the Saxony-Anhalt state election held on September 6, 2026, but did not achieve an absolute majority in the state parliament. The preliminary official results indicate that the AfD secured 43.8% of the vote, capturing 39 seats, making it the largest party in the parliament. However, it fell short of a governing majority, which has raised questions regarding the formation of a new government. The election saw a turnout of nearly 78%, the highest since German reunification in 1990.
Holocaust survivor Eva Umlauf expressed concern over the election results, stating, "this election result scares me," and questioned the direction Germany is taking. She emphasized the importance of remembering the past and fighting for democracy.
The AfD's rise in popularity has been attributed to various factors, including dissatisfaction with the previous government's immigration policies and the perceived handling of the Coronavirus pandemic. International observers have noted that the electoral outcome serves as a signal to establishment parties across Europe.
Elon Musk, a tech entrepreneur, congratulated the AfD on its victory via social media, while the party's lead candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, expressed a desire for constructive cooperation and investment in Germany.
Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the populist BSW party, called for a political reset in Saxony-Anhalt and highlighted the need for changes in energy policy and education. She ruled out a coalition with the AfD but mentioned the possibility of cooperation.
The election results have put pressure on the governing coalition in Berlin, as the CDU, SPD, and FDP previously held power in Saxony-Anhalt but will now remain in office in a caretaker capacity until a new state premier is elected. The CDU failed to win any direct mandates in the election, a significant setback for the party.
The AfD's growing electoral strength raises questions about the future of the political landscape in Germany, particularly regarding the established parties' strategy to maintain a 'political firewall' against cooperation with far-right parties. This election result may influence the dynamics leading up to the next federal election scheduled for 2029.