STOCKHOLM/VISBY, Sweden - Once denounced as neo-fascists, Jimmie Akesson's Sweden Democrats look poised to translate more voter-friendly nationalist policies into big electoral gains in a country long famed for liberal tolerance.
In 1995, Akesson joined a tiny party supported by skinheads in steel-toed boots. Since he became leader in 2005, he has toned down the Sweden Democrats' image and broadened their appeal with his message that immigration is tearing the country apart.
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