Social Democrats fend off AfD in crucial German state election, according to exit polls

The Social Democrats have managed to fend off the far-right Alternative fur Deutschland in a state election in Brandenburg after trailing behind the party throughout the campaign.

According to the exit poll by broadcaster ZDF, the Social Democrats scored 32% of the vote, ahead of the AfD on 29%, in a last-minute comeback.

While the SPD's success could give Scholz a slight reprieve from discussions about his suitability as chancellor candidate, he faces significant challenges within his party.

Incumbent SPD premier Dietmar Woidke distanced himself from Scholz during the campaign, indicating internal dissatisfaction with the federal government's policies.

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