- The election is extremely close, with the centre-left opposition bloc leading by a single seat according to projections, and the difference between the two blocs at 0.1 percentage points.
- The deputy PM describes the election as a 'nailbiter' and says the final result may not be known until Wednesday.
- Opposition leader Andersson calls for patience and stresses the need to count every vote, while expressing readiness to form a government.
- Exit polls and projections indicate a win for the opposition, with the Social Democrats set to lead.
- The far-right leader acknowledges his party has lost support compared to 2022, but says the governing bloc still has a chance to win.
- For Andersson, such a close result would be a bitter disappointment, as she had been seen as a virtual lock to regain office after being ejected from power four years ago, but her side’s double-digit poll lead evaporated in the final days of the race.
- With the fate of the far right in the balance, the vote is a watershed moment for Sweden and will be watched closely elsewhere in Europe, where other nationalist parties are gaining ground.
Sweden's general election is proving to be a nailbiter, with the centre-left bloc narrowly leading the right-wing alliance by one seat, 175 to 174, as of the latest projections.
Deputy PM has indicated that the final results may remain uncertain until Wednesday.45
The election has seen a dramatic shift in support, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's right-wing alliance gaining ground in the final weeks of a contentious campaign. Two exit polls initially suggested a clear lead for the left, but subsequent analyses revealed a much tighter race.
“Right now, we are in the lead, and if this holds, will have a new government,” said former PM Magdalena Andersson, emphasizing the need for patience as every vote is counted.678151617
The election is significant not only for Sweden but also for Europe, as it reflects the rising influence of nationalist parties. “This is a watershed moment for Sweden,” noted analysts, highlighting the implications for other countries facing similar political dynamics.
As the counting continues, the political landscape remains fluid, with both sides expressing cautious optimism. “We have to wait a little longer,” said Left leader Dadgostar, celebrating her party's gains.
The outcome of this election could reshape Sweden's political future, particularly regarding the far-right Sweden Democrats, who are expected to lose their status as the second-largest party.
“The far-right leader acknowledges his party lost support compared to 2022, but insists the governing bloc 'still has a chance to win this.' Left leader Dadgostar celebrates her party's gains, projected at 8.1% up from 6.75% in 2022.”
politico.eu
The Guardian
