Eastern German Elections: Far-Right AfD Set to Make Historic Gains

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is poised to win in eastern states' elections, challenging Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition. Despite likely winning the highest number of seats, AfD is not expected to form a government due to lack of majority and refusal of other parties to collaborate. The elections highlight increasing political fragmentation and could impact national coalition-building.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is projected to win in at least one of two elections in eastern German states on Sunday, putting Chancellor Olaf Scholz's federal coalition under increased pressure over economic, immigration, and Ukraine support policies.

The 11-year-old AfD has stronger support in the former East Germany but is unlikely to form a state government due to polling short of a majority and other parties' unwillingness to collaborate. Nevertheless, it will mark the first time a far-right party has held the most seats in a German state parliament since World War Two. This could complicate coalition-building and hinder constitutional changes and the appointment of certain judges.

In Thuringia, the AfD is polling at 30%, nearly 10 points ahead of the conservatives, and ties with them at 30-32% in Saxony. The newly-formed far-left Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) is projected to come third in both states. Strong performances from these anti-establishment parties signal growing instability in Europe's largest economy, indicating political fragmentation that complicates national government formation efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)