On Sunday, September 20, 2026, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed the media at the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party headquarters in Berlin. Despite significant losses in two state elections, Merz affirmed his decision to remain in office. He reiterated his commitment to undertake challenging reforms aimed at revitalizing Europe’s largest economy.
Exit polls conducted by public broadcaster ARD revealed a drastic performance for Merz’s CDU, registering just 5% support in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. This marks the party’s lowest result in any state since World War II. Conversely, the Alternative for Germany (AfD), known for its anti-migration stance and Russia-friendly policies, achieved noteworthy gains.
Merz did not shy away from acknowledging the CDU’s performance as a “disaster.” Nonetheless, he emphasized his refusal to withdraw from the government’s ambitious reform plans. He argued that Germany’s pressing economic and political challenges necessitate urgent and potentially unpopular reforms. He committed to proceeding with determination, resilience, and patience.
In Berlin, the ARD exit poll projected CDU to finish second, receiving 20% of the vote compared to the Left party’s 24.5%. Merz’s leadership was already under scrutiny following CDU’s defeat by AfD in the September 6 election in Saxony-Anhalt. The electoral success of AfD in Saxony-Anhalt alarmed many by signaling possible regional governance by a far-right party, a situation not seen in Germany since World War II.
Since becoming Germany’s chancellor 16 months ago, Merz pledged to revitalize an economy that has stagnated, but his popularity has declined along with national morale. The AfD’s performance in Saxony-Anhalt further undermined Merz’s position on a national level.
Calls for Merz’s replacement have surfaced within his own party, although no prominent allies have publicly demanded his resignation. Some have cautioned against engaging in “personnel debates.” In light of anticipated challenges post-election, Merz canceled his planned visit to the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Despite adversity, he has consistently expressed his intention to complete his chancellorship.