Polls Open in Saxony-Anhalt as Far-Right AfD Eyes Majority

Polling stations opened Sunday in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt for regional elections being watched closely across Europe. The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party is projected to potentially secure an absolute majority in the state parliament, a result that would mark a historic and controversial milestone for the party. Saxony-Anhalt, located in eastern Germany, has been a stronghold of AfD support in recent years. An absolute majority would allow the AfD to govern without needing coalition partners, significantly amplifying their political power at the regional level. The outcome is being monitored with concern by mainstream political parties and democratic institutions, as it could signal broader shifts in German and European politics. Results are expected later Sunday evening as votes are counted.