Austria's Far-Right Seeks Historic Win in Tight Election

Freedom Party leader Herbert Kickl aims to become chancellor amid voter concerns over immigration, inflation, and Ukraine.

Austria's Freedom Party, led by Herbert Kickl, is vying for its first national election victory, with recent polls showing a close race against the ruling Austrian People's Party.
Kickl's campaign has focused on anti-immigration policies, economic worries, and opposition to sanctions on Russia, positioning himself as a 'chancellor of the people.'
The Freedom Party's rise follows a narrow win in the European Parliament elections in June, reflecting broader gains for far-right parties across Europe.
Chancellor Karl Nehammer of the conservative People's Party has portrayed himself as a stabilizing force, criticizing Kickl as a security risk and a conspiracy theorist.
The outcome could significantly alter Austria's role in the EU, with potential coalition negotiations involving the People's Party, Social Democrats, and possibly the liberal Neos.