Scoop: Far-right AfD Leads in Saxony and Thuringia State Elections
The upcoming state elections in Saxony and Thuringia are shaping up differently, as a new poll reveals some intriguing shifts. In Saxony, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) remains fiercely competitive with the Alternative for Germany (AfD), while in Thuringia, the AfD remains firmly positioned at the top.
According to the recent RTL/ntv survey, the AfD maintains its commanding lead in Thuringia, standing at an impressive 30%. Notably, the CDU experiences a slight growth, now at 22%. Meanwhile, the Alliance for Progress and Social Justice (BSW) takes a hit, dropping to 17%, and the Left Party sees a minor increase, now at 14%. The Social Democrats (SPD) and the Greens remain steady at 7% and 4%, respectively, failing to secure a seat in the state parliament.
In Saxony, the race between CDU and AfD remains neck-and-neck. The latest Forsa poll shows the CDU holding steady at 33%, with the AfD nipping at their heels, now at 31%. The BSW sees a decline in Saxony, now at 12%, and the SPD experiences minor growth, now at 7%. The Greens keep a consistent 6%.
The European Union voices concerns about the escalating popularity of extremist parties, particularly the AfD, as they persistently dominate in Thuringia elections. Despite the slight growth of the CDU in Saxony, the tight race with the AfD raises questions about Germany's political trajectory.
Extra Insights:
- The AfD has become the dominant force in regional elections in both Saxony and Thuringia, solidifying their status as Germany's strongest political force.
- The AfD's virulent anti-migrant stance, in response to the massive influx of immigrants in 2015-2016, has contributed significantly to their rise.
- The party has stronger roots in the eastern regions, where they have successfully consolidated their foothold in parliaments.
- Meanwhile, the traditional center-right party, the CDU, has not been as strong in the recent regional elections in Saxony and Thuringia as the AfD.
- Despite a decline in support, the SPD, Germany's center-left party, is still a significant player in the national political landscape.
- The Greens, despite experiencing a minor decrease in percentage terms, remain relatively stable compared to the significant losses the party has faced in the past.
