Berlin election recount grants seat to AfD as Die Linke leads polls

A recount following a data transmission error in Berlin’s Spandau district has reassigned a direct parliamentary seat from Christian Democratic Union candidate Bettina Meißner to Tommy Tabor of the Alternative for Germany. The adjustment reduced the total size of the Abgeordnetenhaus by five seats by removing balancing mandates.

The correction coincides with broader shifts in Berlin's political landscape. A Forsa poll placed Die Linke ahead at 22 percent, propelled by strong youth backing. In contrast, voter turnout among residents with a migration background remains low in districts like Neukölln. Nevertheless, some young voters of Turkish origin are reportedly turning to the right-wing party, citing concerns over economic stability, public safety, and disappointment with mainstream political options.

Sources: Correctiv, Die Zeit, DW, FAZ, Tagesschau