Far-right gains in Germany reflect Europe's uneven populist shift

The far-right Alternative for Germany's victory in a state election has renewed concerns about rising far-right influence in Europe, as voters express discontent over crises ranging from affordability to trade disputes. While anti-immigrant parties have gained ground across the continent, notable reversals have occurred, and some have moderated views to form coalitions. The AfD fell short of an absolute majority in Saxony-Anhalt, though it may still form the first far-right state government since the Nazi era. Far-right leaders celebrated the win ahead of elections in France and Spain next year, which will test whether the vote marks a watershed or a pattern of voters casting out incumbents. Recent setbacks include losses in Hungary and the Netherlands.