Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is setting its sights on the upcoming state election in Saxony, scheduled for September 1, 2026. The party, which currently leads in polls with around 30% support in the eastern state, aims to capitalize on anti-immigration sentiment and dissatisfaction with the ruling federal coalition.
AfD's campaign strategy
AfD co-leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla have been crisscrossing Saxony, focusing on issues such as migration, energy costs, and economic insecurity. The party's platform includes stricter border controls, a halt to renewable energy subsidies, and tax cuts for low-income earners. According to a recent poll by Infratest dimap, the AfD leads the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) by 5 percentage points in Saxony.
Weidel told supporters at a rally in Dresden on July 2: "We are the voice of the people who have been ignored by the establishment. The upcoming election is a chance to send a clear message to Berlin." The party has also benefited from a split in the left-wing vote, with the Left Party and the Greens polling below 10% each.
Impact on federal politics
A strong showing for the AfD in Saxony could increase pressure on Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government, which has seen its approval ratings slump amid infighting over budget and migration policy. The AfD's success would also embolden other far-right parties across Europe, including France's National Rally and Italy's Brothers of Italy.
Political analyst Anna Sauer of the German Institute for International and Security Affairs noted: "An AfD victory in Saxony would be a symbolic blow to the mainstream parties. It would demonstrate that the far-right can win in a state election, even if it remains unlikely to form a government due to other parties' refusal to cooperate."
Opposition and concerns
Critics warn that an AfD-led government in Saxony could threaten democratic institutions and minority rights. The party's youth wing, Junge Alternative, has been classified as "extremist" by German domestic intelligence. Local anti-fascist groups have planned counter-protests for election day.
The CDU, which has governed Saxony since reunification, is campaigning on stability and economic growth. CDU state premier Michael Kretschmer said: "We must not let the AfD divide our society. Saxony has prospered under our leadership, and we will continue to invest in education and infrastructure."
