German Far-Right Set for Big Win in Eastern State of Saxony-Anhalt - Projections
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By Paul Kirby, Europe digital editor, and Jessica Parker, Berlin correspondent in Magdeburg (Reuters)
Germany's AfD is heading for a significant victory in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, according to initial projections. The far-right party appears to be well ahead of its mainstream rivals, suggesting it may gain power in the state.
The AfD is projected to win over 44% of the vote, surpassing the conservative CDU by a considerable margin (18.2%). Charismatic leader Ulrich Siegmund has already declared victory and ruled out governing with any other party.
No far-right party has seized control of a German state since World War II, but governing at this level would give them power over policing, education, and culture in Saxony-Anhalt, a state with a population of approximately 2.1 million.
While earlier polls indicated a weaker performance for the AfD, their projected result is higher than expected. Party leaders won't know their final seat count until after smaller parties' performances are clarified. The AfD currently appears set to secure 39 seats in the 83-seat state parliament.
Supporters at the AfD election night party celebrated with cheers and singing Germany's national anthem upon hearing the projections.
"We have made history in this state," declared Siegmund, while his CDU opponent Sven Schulze conceded defeat. The center-left SPD described the outcome as "truly dramatic."
AfD stands for Alternative für Deutschland. Despite dominant performance in these elections, its supporters believe they are poised to make further gains. Turnout was particularly high, estimated at 78%.