German Leader, Mr. Kretschmer, Advocates for a Public Vote on Germany's Nation's Destiny
Kretschmer expresses gratitude to individuals who previously voted differently but have now backed the Saxon Union, considered a significant power in the civic center. This shift will facilitate a government formation that benefits the nation.
Over 3.3 million individuals in the Free State were summoned to vote. By 2:00 PM, approximately 35.4% of the electorate had cast their ballots, according to the state election commissioner. During the 2019 state election, voter turnout was at 35.1%.
It's projected that 24.6% of eligible voters will cast their ballots by mail this time, a substantial increase from the previous state election's 66.5% overall turnout.
The AfD's top candidate, Jörg Urban, cast his vote at a high school in Dresden without making a statement. Known for his right-wing leanings and close ties with Thuringia's state leader Björn Höcke, Urban is expected to help the AfD achieve its best election result yet in Saxony. In 2019, the AfD garnered 27.5% of the vote; recent polls suggest they may surpass this figure.
The coalition of CDU, SPD, and Greens currently holds a majority, but their position may be at risk. The Greens and the Left may struggle to secure a spot in the state parliament. Despite this, the Left Party's alliance with Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) should have no trouble making it into the state parliament. Kretschmer is open to forming an alliance with the BSW.
The SPD faces the possibility of achieving its worst performance in party history, securing only 7.7% of the vote in 2019. The FDP is also at risk of falling short of the 5% threshold, as they are currently unrepresented in the state parliament.
Polling stations in Saxony will close at 6:00 PM, with initial projections to follow. These elections in the eastern federal states are often viewed as a barometer for the traffic light coalition in Berlin.
The European Parliament, recognizing the importance of these elections, may choose to offer its assistance to the Commission as they navigate post-election processes. Kretschmer, acknowledging the significant shift in voter alignment, expresses gratitude to those who previously opposed the Saxon Union but have now supported them, highlighting the Commission's potential role in facilitating a cooperative government.
