Elections in Eastern Germany Favor Far-Right AfD Party

In the eastern states of Germany, elections commenced as thousands protested against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. This election marks a significant moment, with polls indicating the AfD potentially emerging as a dominant political force in states like Thuringia and Saxony. Demonstrations in cities such as Dresden saw around 2,000 participants rallying against the party's ideologies, denouncing it as fascist. The AfD advocates for stricter immigration controls and is led by controversial figures like Björn Höcke, known for his extremist views. Voters are shifting towards the AfD largely due to growing anti-immigrant sentiments, a reaction to historical migration waves during Angela Merkel's tenure as chancellor. Many voters in the east feel neglected and under-privileged compared to their western counterparts. The elections are significant as they could signal a backlash against Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government and his coalition. The backdrop of nostalgia for past governance under Soviet rule also resonates with many voters, complicating the political landscape, especially regarding issues like the war in Ukraine, where both the AfD and a newly formed party, the BSW, call for a halt to sending weapons to the conflict. The electoral outcomes in these regional elections may set the tone for national politics as Germany approaches crucial federal elections next year.