AfD Tops Saxony-Anhalt Vote, Tests Wider Reach

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) finished first in Saxony-Anhalt's state election on Sept. 6, 2026, exit polls showed. The result in eastern Germany gives momentum to hard-right parties — those stressing nationalism and immigration limits — ahead of European votes next year, The New York Times reported. The question is whether regional wins can bring broader influence without governing power.