Sweden faces political uncertainty as far-right loses some of its vote share in super close election

Updated on: September 14, 2026 / 6:57 AM EDT

/ CBS/AFP

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Sweden faced political uncertainty Monday after an election thriller that saw the left-wing opposition hold on to a slim lead with votes still left to count. Sunday's election also served up a surprise setback for the far-right Sweden Democrats, who lost ground for the first time since entering parliament 16 years ago.The leader of the left-wing opposition, Magdalena Andersson of the Social Democrats, and outgoing conservative Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson each said they wanted to explore coalition options to secure power and form a new government, but both would have to make major concessions to obtain a majority.While the left-wing held a slim lead, the bloc was expected to face thorny negotiations to form a government, with the talks expected to drag on for several weeks. Parliament can vote on a new prime minister on Sept. 29, at the earliest.

Sweden's Social Democratic Party leader Magdalena Andersson speaks during the Social Democrats' election night party in Stockholm, Sept. 13, 2026.