The Alternative for Germany (AfD) has surged to first place in state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, winning 44% of the vote. But the anti-immigrant, pro-Russian party fell three seats short of an absolute majority,

By Miranda Murray and Andreas Rinke BERLIN, Sept 7 (Reuters) - Chancellor Friedrich Merz ruled out working with the Alternative for Germany on Monday after the far-right party surged into first place in state elections in Saxony-Anhalt,

BERLIN (AP) — Alternative for Germany, or AfD, has established itself as a significant political force in the 13 years since its founding, but it has never been part of any state or federal government. That’s a result of what is often called a “firewall” against cooperation with the anti-immigrant, far-right party.

The AfD may not end up controlling Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state despite a landslide election victory, but the far-right party's "dream result" sends a clear message.

The "extraordinary" result may be the "most consequential German state-election result of the postwar era," according to analysts.

The far-right Alternative for Germany's (AfD) Ulrich Siegmundis the ⁠most ⁠likely next leader of the eastern ⁠state parliament in Saxony-Anhalt after a historic election win. The 35-year-old former fragrance salesman has laid ​out 10 points that he would like to achieve in the first 100 days of office as part of his "Vision 2026" election ‌manifesto.

AfD Saxony-Anhalt is a racist extremist group, according to the German state's intelligence agency. The party may well trounce its rivals in this weekend's state election.

MAGDEBURG, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 5: AfD lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party, speaks to supporters during the final campaign rally on the eve of state elections in Saxony-Anhalt on September 5, 2026 in Magdeburg, Germany. (Photo by Jens Schlueter/Getty Images)

A political earthquake is brewing in Germany's east as working-class and young voters appear set to deliver an unprecedented victory for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Sunday’s state elections in Saxony-Anhalt.

Far-right parties are gaining ground in Europe, with the National Rally in France and Reform UK leading in popularity. The AfD in Germany achieved significant electoral success, aiming for a minority government,