AfD's Ulrich Siegmund votes in pivotal Saxony-Anhalt state election
Saxony-Anhalt held a state election on Sunday in which the AfD hopes to achieve its strongest result yet and possibly lead a state government for the first time. Party candidate Ulrich Siegmund cast his vote in his hometown of Tangermünde.
Germany's state of Saxony-Anhalt held a closely watched state election on Sunday, with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party hoping to secure its best-ever result and potentially take the lead in a state government for the first time in its history.
AfD candidate Ulrich Siegmund cast his ballot in his hometown of Tangermünde, arriving at the polling station with his wife Julia. Supporters had gathered outside to greet him, cheering as he arrived on a motorcycle. After voting, Siegmund posed for selfies with members of the crowd.
Conditional bid for governor
Siegmund has indicated he would only pursue the governor's post if the AfD wins an absolute majority in the election. Speaking to supporters after casting his vote, he said he sensed a "spirit of optimism" surrounding the election and called on Germany to move past its political divisions.
The outcome in Saxony-Anhalt is being watched nationally as a barometer of the AfD's broader momentum across Germany.
