On Sunday, polling stations opened in the German state of Brandenburg, where the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is expected to outpace Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) for the first time in a traditionally SPD-dominated region. This follows AfD’s landmark victory in Thuringia in early September, making it the first far-right party to win an election in Germany since World War II.
AfD has been gaining momentum, capitalizing on public discontent over economic slowdown, immigration, and the ongoing war in Ukraine—issues that resonate particularly strongly in eastern Germany.
AfD candidate Hans-Christoph Berndt expressed optimism after casting his vote, saying the party’s growing support indicates a shift in Germany’s political landscape. However, despite potential electoral success, AfD remains isolated, as no other party is willing to form a government with them.
The outcome of the Brandenburg elections will serve as a critical signal for Scholz’s ruling coalition, with the Chancellor’s approval ratings at a historic low. Brandenburg’s SPD premier, Dietmar Woidke, has distanced himself from Scholz during his campaign, focusing on regional achievements like the opening of the Tesla factory and Brandenburg airport.
Recent polls show a tight race between AfD and SPD, with just a one-point difference, making the election results highly unpredictable.
