Sweden votes in tight election as far right eyes historic breakthrough

Swedes are heading to the polls on Sunday to elect a new parliament, in a closely fought election that could deliver fresh gains for the far right and potentially bring it into government for the first time.

Conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is seeking another term in office, but his chances of staying in power could depend on the Sweden Democrats, the far-right party that already supports his minority government.

Kristersson’s main challenger is his predecessor, Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson, with opinion polls pointing to an extremely tight contest between the country’s rival political blocs.

The prime minister currently leads a minority government made up of his centre-right Moderate Party, the Christian Democrats and the Liberals. The coalition relies on the backing of the Sweden Democrats, which have become increasingly influential in Swedish politics.

Kristersson has said he could go a step further after the election and form a governing coalition that formally includes the Sweden Democrats. Such an outcome would mark a historic breakthrough for the far right, giving the party direct access to government for the first time and underlining its growing role in shaping Sweden’s political agenda.

Around eight million people are eligible to vote in the Nordic country of roughly 10.6 million. More than half have already cast their ballots in advance, reflecting Sweden’s traditionally high voter turnout.

Polling stations will remain open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. Two exit polls are expected as soon as voting ends, with more reliable partial results due several hours later.