Scholz's SPD Narrowly Defeats Far-Right AfD in Brandenburg State Election with 30.9% to 29.2%

Sep 22, 2024, 06:13 PM

In a closely watched regional election in Brandenburg, Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD) narrowly defeated the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Exit polls showed the SPD leading with 31%, followed by the AfD at 30%. The final results confirmed the SPD secured 30.9% of the vote, while the AfD garnered 29.2%. The CDU and BSW each secured 12% of the vote. The election saw a significant increase in voter turnout, with 73% of the electorate casting ballots compared to 61.3% in 2019. This result is seen as a crucial victory for Scholz's party, which has governed Brandenburg since reunification in 1990, but has faced growing challenges from the far-right. The SPD's victory is attributed to the leadership of state premier Dietmar Woidke, who distanced himself from the unpopular national coalition. The Greens failed to meet the 5% threshold required for representation in the state parliament. The election results highlight the growing support for the far-right among younger voters, with the AfD receiving 32% of the vote from those aged 16-24.