Swedes vote in election that could usher far right into government

Swedes voted on Sunday in an election that could see the far-right Sweden Democrats enter government for the first time, aligning with a broader European trend. The center-left opposition, led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, held a narrow lead over the ruling right-wing bloc, though Kristersson's Social Democrats had been gaining ground. The right-wing bloc, which includes the Moderates, Christian Democrats, and Sweden Democrats, advocates for policies to curb gang violence and reduce immigration. Kristersson stated, "We can unify parties, voters and issues into joint action. That's why we get things done." Critics, however, argue that these policies undermine civil liberties and create a "harder society," as noted by rival Magdalena Andersson. Both blocs have converged on issues such as support for Ukraine, military rearmament, and addressing the cost-of-living crisis, but divisions remain on immigration and other domestic policies.