Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD's lead candidate in Saxony-Anhalt, could become the first far-right leader of a German state since Adolf Hitler, according to a report by journalist John Kampfner. The German news magazine Der Spiegel recently featured Siegmund on its cover under the headline “Der gefährlichste Mann Deutschlands” (Germany's most dangerous man).
Spiegel cover boosts campaign
Rather than shunning the provocative label, Siegmund has embraced it on the campaign trail. He has been autographing copies of the magazine and even filmed himself signing one for his 800,000 TikTok followers. The cover photo shows the young east German politician with designer stubble, a neat quiff, and green eyes staring directly into the camera.
Support for the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt has reached 42%, almost double the tally for the CDU, the party of Chancellor Friedrich Merz. This Sunday's state elections could be among the most important in postwar Germany.
Eastern states could follow
If the AfD wins in Saxony-Anhalt, other eastern states could follow suit later this month, raising fears that the party could ultimately win in federal elections. Kampfner explained the stakes to Helen Pidd, detailing how dangerous Siegmund really is.
The election outcome will be closely watched across Germany and Europe, as it could signal a shift in the country's political landscape. The AfD's rise in the east has been fueled by voter dissatisfaction with established parties and economic concerns.
Should Siegmund secure victory, it would mark a historic milestone for the far right in Germany, with potential implications for national politics and the European Union. The final result will be announced after polls close on Sunday.
