AfD's Landslide in Saxony-Anhalt Puts Merz Under Pressure

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has secured a landslide victory in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, a result that significantly weakens Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The CDU, which had governed the state for 24 years, saw its support halve, while the AfD more than doubled its vote share.

Political analyst Volker Resing noted that the outcome reinforces the existing perception that the federal government is deeply unpopular, with much of that discontent tied directly to the chancellor. The result is a major setback for Merz, who had pledged to curb the AfD's influence.

The AfD's lead candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, appears to have energised the electorate, particularly by mobilising previous non-voters. Resing pointed out that around 40 percent of AfD voters in this election did not cast a ballot five years ago, suggesting the party's success is linked to higher turnout.

Despite the strong performance, the AfD fell just short of an absolute majority. Siegmund would need to secure additional support to become state premier, leaving the coming weeks politically uncertain. The CDU has maintained a 'firewall' against cooperation with the far right, a stance that remains controversial within the party. Any move by Merz to engage with the AfD could trigger deep internal divisions, according to Resing.

The result has been welcomed by far-right parties across Europe and comes at a time when Germany faces multiple external challenges, including Russia's war in Ukraine and tensions with the United States.