German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has vowed to remain in office after his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) suffered historic defeats in two state elections on September 21, 2025, including a record-low 5% in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Exit polls from public broadcasters ARD and ZDF showed the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) securing 38% of the vote in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, marking its second consecutive state-level victory in less than a month. The AfD also polled 16% in Berlin, where the far-left Die Linke won 24.5%, ahead of the CDU’s 20%.
Merz described the CDU’s performance as a “disaster” but reiterated his commitment to pressing ahead with economic reforms, stating: “What needs to be done now requires backbone, steadfastness, and patience.” He dismissed calls to resign, despite mounting internal party pressure.
Immediate Impact on German Politics
The AfD’s gains in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Berlin follow its earlier victory in Saxony-Anhalt, where it secured 37% of the vote on September 6. While the AfD remains excluded from power due to a 2018 “firewall” agreement among mainstream parties, its electoral momentum has intensified scrutiny of Merz’s leadership.
In Berlin, the CDU’s 20% share placed it behind Die Linke (24.5%), signaling broader voter discontent with the ruling coalition. The AfD’s 16% in Berlin marked a notable increase from previous elections, reflecting growing support across urban and rural regions.
Policy and Political Fallout
Merz’s government has faced criticism for failing to address economic stagnation, immigration concerns, and rising living costs, which have fueled support for both the AfD and Die Linke. His reform agenda—including labor market and welfare changes—has encountered resistance from coalition partners, further weakening his position.
The CDU’s 5% in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is its worst result since 1949, raising questions about its future electoral viability. Political analysts suggest the party may need to reassess its strategy ahead of national elections.
International Reactions
The AfD’s continued success has drawn attention from European leaders, with concerns that its rise could embolden far-right movements across the continent. The party’s anti-immigration and pro-Russia stances have drawn criticism, though its supporters argue it reflects public frustration with mainstream parties.
What’s Next?
Final election results are expected in the coming hours, with potential implications for Merz’s chancellorship and the CDU’s long-term prospects. The AfD’s growing influence may force mainstream parties to reconsider their refusal to cooperate with it, though no immediate shifts in policy are anticipated.
For now, Merz has signaled no intention to step down, despite calls from within his party to reconsider his leadership.