Germany's far-right party AfD surges to historic victory in state election
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's party faces a disastrous blow as AfD aims for Germany's first far-right state government since World War II.
TL;DR
- Alternative for Germany (AfD) projected to win big in Saxony-Anhalt regional election.
- Merz's Christian Democratic Union faces a significant defeat.
- AfD aims to form Germany's first far-right state government since WWII.
- AfD's candidate Siegmund claims voters sent a message against the status quo.
- Widespread public discontent with the national government cited as a factor.
- Merz's party vows not to work with AfD, calling it extremist.
- AfD is strongest in eastern Germany and has faced scrutiny from intelligence agencies.
- Projections show AfD with over 44% of the vote, while Merz's party polled 18%.