A new left-conservative competitor in the German party system? The supporters of ‘Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht’ (BSW) and their ideological positions.

Abstract

Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) is the name of a new political party aiming to shake up Germany's political landscape in 2024. With a unique blend of economically left and culturally conservative positions, the BSW appeals to a substantial proportion of the electorate, particularly in eastern Germany. Drawing on original survey data that was gathered in early 2024 our study investigates the ideological positions of BSW supporters. We show how individual positioning in a socio-economic left-right and a socio-cultural liberal-conservative dimension as well as political alienation influence sympathy and electoral backing for the BSW. By comparing the ideological proximity of BSW supporters with those of other parties – especially the AfD and the Linke – we estimate the prospect of voter exchanges. Moreover, our analysis reveals significant differences between eastern and western Germany leading to an ambivalent role of the BSW within the German party system and to varying constellations of political competition.