German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suffered a fresh electoral setback on Sunday as his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) lost ground in two state elections, but he rejected suggestions that his government would backtrack on its reform agenda.Exit polls by public broadcaster ARD showed the CDU securing just 5% in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, its lowest-ever result in a German state since World War II.In Berlin, the centre-right party was projected to finish second with 20%, trailing the Left party, which was estimated to win 24.5%, according to ARD’s exit poll.Merz described the CDU’s performance as a “disaster” but remained defiant, arguing that Germany’s economic and political challenges made difficult, and potentially unpopular, reforms more necessary rather than less. He pledged to continue his agenda with “backbone, steadfastness and patience.”His authority had already been weakened by the CDU’s defeat to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the September 6 election in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt. The result had shocked many Germans, triggering protests in several cities in Europe’s biggest economy.Since becoming Germany’s leader in May 2025, Merz has pledged to revive an economy that has seen little growth for years. But he has struggled to improve the country’s gloomy national mood and has himself become increasingly unpopular.
Merz losing ground?
Meanwhile, the anti-immigration and Russia-friendly AfD made significant gains on Sunday as well.The AfD’s strong performance in Saxony-Anhalt, where it has its strongest opportunity yet to lead a far-right state government since World War II, has further weakened Merz’s position nationally. In recent weeks, calls for his replacement as chancellor have even emerged from within his own party, although no prominent allies have publicly backed his departure, and many have cautioned against getting drawn into “personnel debates.”Apparently bracing for a difficult period following the elections, Merz cancelled a planned trip to New York next week to attend the UN General Assembly. Despite the growing political pressure, he has repeatedly insisted that he intends to remain in office and complete his term as chancellor.(With AP inputs)
