Mainstream politicians express alarm while lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt welcomes congratulations from Elon Musk

Mainstream politicians around Europe have expressed alarm after the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) swept to a historic state election victory in Germany, while nationalist figures cheered the result as a mandate for change.

While falling just short of an absolute majority, the AfD surged into first place in the Saxony-Anhalt state election on Sunday, exit polls ⁠showed, putting the far right within reach ​of power at ‌the state level for ‌the first time since the second world war.

  • Kiwi_fella@lemmy.world
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    2 days ago

    I’m interested in your statement about this state being one of a couple that always vote right wing. “Nothing new” is how you ended that bit. The way it comes across in the media and commentary is that this is quite a significant thing, so I’m wondering if this is actually worrying or media hype? Thoughts? I’ve also heard that AfD is polling well across Germany in general, so is this taken into account in the media and your statement?

    Because we are internet strangers, I just want you to know I’m actually interested in what you said and your opinion, with no intent of attacking you.

    • just_an_average_joe@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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      2 days ago

      For reference, in Baden-Württemberg, AfD almost got second place in state election. They got barely less than CDU and came third with about 20%. BW is south west Germany btw. They have been getting votes from everywhere.