Support for Trump rises among Sweden’s Sweden Democrats amidst NATO concerns

Support for Donald Trump is particularly strong among Sweden’s Sweden Democrats (SD), a party known for its far-right stance, vigorous rhetoric, and criticism of immigration and climate policies. According to a recent survey, 43% of SD voters would support Trump, a stark contrast to the broader Swedish electorate, where only 12% favor him; 79% indicated they would vote for Kamala Harris.

Despite their backing for NATO and assistance to Ukraine, SD’s alignment with Trump raises concerns. Trump’s skepticism towards NATO and criticism of military support for Ukraine could negatively affect Swedish security, given the country’s proximity to Russia and Ukraine. Over the years, Trump has suggested reducing U.S. involvement in NATO, which could undermine the alliance’s deterrent capability—central to its effectiveness lies the belief that the U.S. would defend all its territories.

For Sweden and the Biden administration, continued support for Ukraine is crucial to countering Russian aggression. A victory for Russia in the Ukraine conflict raises fears that Putin may target other neighboring countries next. Compared to Harris, Trump has expressed hesitance regarding ongoing support for Ukraine.

High-ranking Swedish officials have warned that a Trump presidency could transform NATO into a less robust defense entity. Thus, it is alarming that 43% of SD voters favor Trump, especially since security issues could have clear repercussions for Sweden. For many SD supporters, these concerns appear secondary in the context of the U.S. presidential election.