BSW voters defy stereotypes, new study reveals

A new study by a union-affiliated institute challenges common perceptions of BSW (Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht) voters. Contrary to the image of a party for nostalgic older men, the research shows a more diverse electorate. The BSW had strong showings in the 2024 European election and the 2025 federal election in Saxony-Anhalt, but recent polls show a decline: an INSA survey puts the party at 4% in Saxony-Anhalt (AfD at 42%) and around 3% nationally. In Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate, the BSW fell well below the 5% threshold in March. Despite this, the party remains politically active: it is part of a governing coalition in Thuringia, a first SPD-BSW coalition failed in Brandenburg, and in Karlsruhe the party is pushing for a recount of the federal election. The study provides surprising insights into the BSW milieu, contradicting common stereotypes.