Sweden's election has resulted in a deadlock, with neither the centre-left nor centre-right blocs securing a majority. With over 99% of votes counted, the centre-left has 40.6% and the centre-right 40.2%. The Sweden Democrats, a populist anti-immigrant party, gained 17.6% of the vote, which is an increase from their previous 12.9% but below the anticipated 25%. The Social Democrats, led by Prime Minister Stefan Löfven, experienced their lowest vote share in a century but remained the top party. Löfven has called for cross-bloc cooperation and refused to resign, criticizing the Sweden Democrats for fostering division and hate. Analysts expect prolonged negotiations to form a government, with the Sweden Democrats likely to influence policy despite their extremist roots.

The article discusses the various perspectives of Swedish voters during an election marked by a desire for change and frustration with the status quo. Voters like Fredrik Sigleifs and Gabriel Kroon support the anti-immigration Sweden Democrats, hoping for a shake-up in the political landscape, despite concerns that mainstream parties may block them from gaining real influence. Others, such as Admir Shkodra and Aminat Iakubova, vote for the Social Democrats or other parties out of fear of the far-right's rise. Issues such as crime, the environment, and the defense of liberal democracy are also highlighted as key concerns. The article suggests that even if the Sweden Democrats do not enter government, a strong electoral performance could allow them to block legislation, which worries voters like Mikaela Lundh. Some, like Anna and Viktor Davidson, prioritize environmental issues but also see their vote as a stance against racism. The piece captures the tension between the desire for change and the fear of the far-right's influence in Sweden.