Far-Right AfD Candidate Ulrich Siegmund Eyes Historic Win in Saxony-Anhalt

HALLE, GERMANY — Ulrich Siegmund, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) candidate for governor in Saxony-Anhalt, has built a formidable campaign presence through social media rather than traditional journalism. As the party leads the polls ahead of Sunday’s state election, Siegmund’s candidacy marks a potential historic milestone: it could make the AfD the first far-right party to head a German state government since World War II.

The 35-year-old former marketing professional maintains a substantial following on TikTok, boasting nearly half the number of followers as the state’s eligible voting population. He engages directly with supporters, often answering questions from his home, and projects a polished image characterized by crisp white shirts and a consistent smile. This demeanor contrasts with the typical gruffness associated with many in his party, even as he advocates for strict immigration controls and mass deportations.

Siegmund’s digital strategy emphasizes upbeat messaging over detailed policy discussions. However, former AfD supporter Hannes Kreschel, a 23-year-old law student, has taken it upon himself to scrutinize the party’s actual platform. Kreschel attends rallies to debate voters, arguing that the AfD’s economic policies primarily benefit the wealthy and that their nationalist vision contradicts the open society he desires.

Despite Kreschel’s efforts to counter the narrative, some local voters remain drawn to the party. Alexander Winsek, a 49-year-old aviation engineer, indicated he might vote AfD for the first time, citing the party’s stance on limiting migrant influx. While Winsek maintains support for NATO and the euro and rejects pro-Russian sentiments, he finds Siegmund’s optimistic and energetic style to be a refreshing change from the more alarmist rhetoric of other AfD figures.

Marcel Lewandowsky, a democracy researcher at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, suggests that many AfD voters are not anti-democratic but rather feel that the current system is failing them. He argues that the party’s anti-establishment appeal resonates because mainstream parties are perceived as excluding the “silent majority.” A victory in Saxony-Anhalt would represent a significant breakthrough for the AfD, which is monitored by domestic intelligence agencies as right-wing extremist in several states. Yet, for critics like Kreschel, the party’s promise of representation appears limited to those who already agree with its platform.