Merz claims bots boosted AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, but officials find no proof

At a recent "Jugend forscht" reception, Friedrich Merz asserted that bot networks were a significant factor behind the AfD's success in the Saxony-Anhalt state election. He described such networks as a phenomenon now shaping electoral contests. When pressed for evidence, the Saxony-Anhalt interior ministry responded that it has no information confirming the allegation, and the federal chancellor’s office likewise declined to provide any documentation.

A government spokesperson noted that the chancellor’s remarks speak for themselves and would not be further commented on. While Russia has historically used bots in influence operations, no current investigations by agencies such as the FBI or BKA have linked them to this specific German vote. The claim therefore remains unsubstantiated, leaving the election result intact but politically contested.