Sweden votes in tight election that could empower far-right party

Sweden's voters headed to polling stations on Sunday in an election that could reshape the country's political landscape and bring a nationalist party into the corridors of power for the first time. The Sweden Democrats, which has built support on immigration restrictions and national identity themes, stands to gain ministerial positions should the centre-right bloc secure victory over the ruling left-of-centre coalition.

Polling ahead of the election showed the two blocs running neck-and-neck, with the outcome likely to hinge on voter turnout and late-deciding voters. The Sweden Democrats have gradually risen in electoral support over recent years, transforming from a fringe movement to a significant political force capable of influencing government formation.

Traditional establishment parties have faced growing challenges mobilizing voters around their core platforms, with economic concerns and integration debates dominating campaign discourse. The potential entry of the Sweden Democrats into government would mark a watershed moment for Swedish politics, which has historically been characterized by broad consensus-building among centrist and left-leaning parties.

Final results were expected to become clear in coming days as election officials tabulate votes from across the country. Coalition negotiations would follow, determining which parties ultimately form the next government and what role—if any—the Sweden Democrats would play in shaping policy.