AfD leads as Merz rues ‘disaster’ in worst state election result in postwar Germany
Summary
The far-right Alternative for Germany surged to first place in state elections in northeastern Germany, dealing Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservatives their worst postwar result. The outcome deepens pressure on Merz as he tries to push through unpopular reforms amid voter anger over living costs, pensions and migration.
Key Points
- The AfD topped the vote in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and also posted strong gains in Berlin, while Merz’s conservatives fell below the threshold in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
- Merz called the result a disaster but said he would continue as chancellor and press ahead with his reform agenda.
- SPD leader and Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil signalled a need for a change of course, while Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania premier Manuela Schwesig highlighted voter anger over Ukraine support and energy issues.
- The results intensify debate over the German political “firewall” against cooperating with the AfD and raise questions about Merz’s future and reform capacity.
