German Chancellor Faces Turmoil After Far-Right AfD Wins State Election in Saxony-Anhalt
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces political turmoil after the far-right Alternative for Germany party won a regional election in Saxony-Anhalt, potentially leading the first far-right state government since the Nazi era. The AfD secured 43.8% of the vote, more than doubling its previous share. The AfD, classified as extremist by domestic intelligence, fell short of a majority but aims to govern through coalition talks. Merz's Christian Democrats saw support halve to 17.2%, ending 24 years of state leadership, while other parties won smaller shares. The result could energize AfD in upcoming state elections, though coalition negotiations may prove complex. International reactions varied, with Elon Musk congratulating the party while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the outcome.