AfD Seeks Conservative Support After Historic German State Election Victory

Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is seeking to expand its political influence after securing a historic victory in the Saxony-Anhalt state election, prompting renewed debate over whether conservative parties can continue to maintain their political distance from the party.

The AfD emerged as the strongest force in the election, securing around 44% of the vote and winning 39 of the 83 seats in the state legislature. The result represents a significant breakthrough for the party and has increased pressure on Germany’s established political parties, particularly the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

The election result has also created a difficult political situation for Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his conservatives. Merz has repeatedly rejected cooperation with the AfD, maintaining the CDU’s long-standing position of refusing to form alliances or work directly with the far-right party. However, the AfD’s strong performance has intensified discussions about the future of this political “firewall”.

Following its election success, the AfD has begun looking beyond its traditional support base and is attempting to attract conservative voters and lawmakers. Party officials are seeking to present the AfD as a legitimate political force capable of influencing government policy, rather than remaining isolated on the political margins.

The party’s agenda includes significantly tougher immigration policies, a reduction in Germany’s support for Ukraine and closer relations with Russia. These positions have helped the AfD appeal to voters who are dissatisfied with the policies of Germany’s established parties and concerned about immigration, economic conditions and the country’s role in the Ukraine conflict.

The election outcome has nevertheless raised concerns among political opponents and critics of the AfD. They fear that the party’s growing electoral strength could gradually weaken the political barriers that have traditionally prevented the far right from gaining direct influence over government.

The result is particularly significant for the CDU, which must balance its efforts to retain conservative voters with its refusal to cooperate with the AfD. A shift towards collaboration could have major implications for Germany’s political landscape, while maintaining the existing separation could make it more difficult for mainstream parties to form majorities in some regions. The AfD’s performance in Saxony-Anhalt therefore represents more than a state-level electoral success.