The far-right AfD party secured 43.8 percent of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, positioning it to potentially lead the state government.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party received 43.8 percent of the vote in the recent regional election in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt. This result places the party in a position to potentially lead the state government, a development that would mark the first time a far-right party has led a German state government since World War II.

Policy Program and Cultural Focus

While the party is often associated with far-right activism and inflammatory rhetoric, its formal party program is described as a dry, conservative critique of German politics. The AfD argues that establishment parties have failed Germany through their climate and migration policies. Their proposed agenda for the first 100 days in office includes immediate deportations, cutting funding for public broadcasting, and replacing the state's 'Think Modern' program with 'Think German,' which would involve displaying the German flag at public buildings.

Voter Motivation and Economic Context

Data indicates that AfD support correlates with areas of low income and voters who self-identify as working-class. However, voters do not appear to support the party for its economic policies, as the AfD advocates for austerity and debt reduction. Instead, voters cite concerns regarding immigration, criminality, and a desire for national security. The party's appeal appears rooted in a protest against the political establishment rather than an expectation of material redistribution.