German Chancellor Merz faces setbacks in state elections as far-right gains momentum
publishers 6articles 13first reported 18 Sep, 12:24 UTCdeveloping since 19 Sep · 6 editions
Voters in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania went to the polls in two key German state elections, with the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party expected to make further gains. The results are seen as a test for Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has faced significant losses in recent regional elections. According to exit polls, the AfD secured first place in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and gained strength in Berlin. Merz described the results as a 'disaster' for his party but vowed to press ahead with his reform agenda. The elections follow a historic win for the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt two weeks prior, where the anti-immigration party achieved its highest-ever result in a regional poll. While the AfD has no realistic path to power in Berlin, its growing influence poses a challenge to Merz's political future. The outcome of these elections could determine whether Merz can maintain his position as chancellor.
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