Berlin, Sept. 20, 2026 — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz remains committed to his leadership despite his party’s significant losses in recent state elections. Speaking at the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) headquarters, Merz emphasized his intention to persist with the planned reforms essential for revitalizing Europe’s largest economy.
Exit polls by ARD revealed the CDU’s dismal performance, securing only 5% in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. This is the party’s lowest post-war result in any German state. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, known for its anti-migration and Russia-friendly stance, gained substantial ground.
Merz described the CDU’s result as a “disaster,” yet rejected the notion of retreating from his reform-centric agenda. He stressed that Germany’s current economic challenges necessitate difficult reforms, and pledged to continue with “backbone, steadfastness, and patience.”
In Berlin, CDU is projected to place second, securing 20% behind the Left party, which leads with 24.5%, according to ARD exit polls.
Chancellor Merz has faced declining political authority following CDU’s defeat to AfD in the Saxony-Anhalt election earlier in the month. This unexpected defeat was a shock to Germans who believed their nation had moved beyond nationalist tendencies through extensive education and anti-persecution laws.
Merz, who assumed leadership 16 months ago, pledged economic rejuvenation but has struggled to uplift the national morale. His popularity continues to wane amid concerns of AfD possibly forming Germany’s first far-right regional government since the war.
Within CDU, discussions about potential leadership changes are surfacing, although there’s no public call from major allies for Merz’s removal. Many warn against internal “personnel debates.”
Ignoring demands for his exit, Merz canceled an anticipated trip to the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Despite challenges, he remains resolute about completing his term as Chancellor.