Swedes vote in tight race as far-right Sweden Democrats eye historic cabinet role

Key points

• Voting opened at 8:00 AM local time on September 13, 2026, with polling stations closing at 8:00 PM.
• The left-wing bloc, led by Social Democrats, is slightly ahead in polls but the gap has narrowed significantly.
• The right-wing bloc includes the Moderates, Christian Democrats, Liberals, and the far-right Sweden Democrats.
• If the right wins, the Sweden Democrats are expected to receive cabinet posts, a historic first for the party.
• The campaign was marked by personal attacks, controversial ads, and debates over immigration and crime.

Background

Sweden’s political landscape has shifted rightward since 2022, when the center-right coalition began relying on the Sweden Democrats for parliamentary support. The party, which has neo-Nazi roots, has toned down its rhetoric to gain mainstream acceptance. Previous elections saw the Sweden Democrats become the second-largest party, but they had not held ministerial positions. The 2015 immigration wave and subsequent rise in crime have intensified debates over integration and welfare, shaping the current election dynamics.

How outlets are covering it

Al Jazeera emphasizes the historic nature of the Sweden Democrats potentially entering government and the stark choice between a far-right-dominated government and a center-left coalition. The Guardian highlights the polarized campaign, including personal attacks and controversial ads, and notes the Sweden Democrats’ shift toward the mainstream. Fox News focuses on the impact of immigration and crime on the election, noting that while gun violence has decreased, integration concerns persist. All sources agree on the tight race and the significance of the Sweden Democrats’ potential entry into government.

Why it matters

The outcome of this election could reshape Swedish politics by normalizing the far-right Sweden Democrats in government, potentially influencing policies on immigration, crime, and welfare. It also reflects broader European trends where far-right parties are gaining influence, as seen in recent German elections. The result will determine the direction of Sweden’s welfare state and its approach to immigration and integration.

What to watch

Exit polls are expected at 8:00 PM, with preliminary results following by 10:30 PM. Coalition talks may take weeks or months, depending on the outcome. The Sweden Democrats’ entry into government, if it occurs, could lead to significant policy changes on immigration and crime, while the center-left bloc may focus on boosting the welfare state and addressing cost-of-living issues.