AfD's Historic Surge in Eastern German State Elections

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is set to become the strongest party in Thuringia and nearly level with mainstream conservatives in Saxony, according to exit polls. A new leftist party is also making significant gains. The outcome complicates state government formations amid declining support for Chancellor Scholz's national coalition.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is on track to become the leading party in Thuringia and is close to equaling mainstream conservatives in Saxony, as per exit polls.

A recently founded leftist party is also gaining traction, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz's unpopular national coalition faces disappointing results.

Both ARD and ZDF public television exit polls show AfD's support at 30.5-33.5% in Thuringia and 31.5% in Saxony, with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) trailing behind.

The likelihood of other parties forming coalitions with AfD is minimal, complicating the formation of new state governments, especially with the emerging influence of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance. Alice Weidel, AfD's national co-leader, hailed the results as a significant victory.

Carsten Linnemann of the CDU vowed to continue rejecting any partnership with AfD, a stance criticized by Weidel as ignoring the electorate's will.

National discontent, anti-immigration sentiments, and skepticism towards German military aid for Ukraine have boosted populist support in the east. AfD remains particularly strong in the region, under surveillance in Saxony and Thuringia for its extremist tendencies.

Chancellor Scholz's Social Democrats are, however, projected to retain a presence in both state legislatures, whereas the Greens are set to lose their seats in Thuringia.

A third state election in Brandenburg follows on Sept. 22, adding further complexity to Germany's political landscape ahead of the national election next year.

(With inputs from agencies.)