Study finds that BSW mainly draws in ex-Left Party and AfD supporters.
In a recent study, researchers discovered that East Germans are more likely to express an interest in voting for the Left Party (BSW) than their West German counterparts. Employees with previous votes for the BSW or far-right party, AfD, make up a significant portion of potential supporters. Interestingly, people with migration backgrounds are also more likely to be interested in the BSW. The gender divide is relatively small.
The researchers analyzed survey data from around 4,000 workers and job seekers in November of last year. The study found that those who supported BSW and AfD in the 2021 federal election are more likely to express an interest in the party. However, the largest group of potential BSW supporters comes from those who previously voted for the SPD. While this may seem like a significant group, the overall interest in the BSW among this demographic is average.
It's important to note that the survey question did not refer to a specific election and the sample is not representative of the entire electorate, as some demographics, such as pensioners, were not included.
The authors of the study found a striking similarity between the sympathizers of the BSW and the AfD, including residence, education level, income, workload, and concerns. Unlike the AfD, the potential electorate of the BSW displays a balanced age and gender demographic. Women appear to be more drawn to the BSW than men. Additionally, the percentage of respondents with a migration background is higher.
The study suggests that the BSW may have a chance of challenging the AfD in their strongholds in eastern Germany, with the potential to win over not just men, but women and newcomers as well. Approximately 60% of recent East German AfD supporters and followers say they will definitely or likely vote for the BSW.
