The populist far-right, anti-immigration Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has emerged as the projected winner in a state election in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, according to initial exit polls. The party secured 44.5% of the vote, placing it decisively ahead of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's Christian Democrats (CDU), who were on 18.5%.
Despite the strong showing, it remains uncertain whether the AfD will achieve an absolute majority, which the party has stated is a condition for taking power as it refuses to govern with other parties. Votes are still being counted.
Other parties' projected results include the far-left Die Linke with 9.5%, the Social Democrats on 8%, and the Greens on 9%. The smaller BSW party reportedly reached the 5% threshold needed to re-enter parliament. Voter participation was at a record high of 76.5%.