Geir Moulson, Associated Press
BERLIN (AP) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz affirmed his commitment to remain in office on Monday following his party's two regional election defeats, including a significant loss in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Merz stated he would continue to pursue reforms for Germany's economy despite the setbacks.
After the polls closed on Sunday, Merz described the election results as a "disaster" for his center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), which fell below the 5% threshold required to maintain seats in the regional parliament for the first time in 77 years. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) emerged as the leading party in that region.
In another election, the CDU secured second place in Berlin, trailing the Left Party, which may lead the next city government. However, coalition negotiations could still allow the CDU to retain control of the city hall.
Despite speculation about his leadership, there were no significant calls for Merz's resignation during party meetings on Sunday or Monday. He noted that no personnel issues were raised. "It is the historic task of the governing coalition here in Berlin and the political center as a whole to make our country fit for the coming years," Merz stated. He acknowledged that the CDU needs to refine its approach, admitting that it "no longer has satisfactory answers to too many questions."
The recent election results compound the challenges Merz faces after a previous defeat by the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt, which raised questions about his leadership. The AfD's success in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania was closely followed by the center-left Social Democrats, who campaigned on supporting the state governor, Manuela Schwesig, against the far-right.
A coalition led by Schwesig would hold a majority in the new regional legislature. The Social Democrats' national leaders expressed support for the coalition but indicated a desire for adjustments to the federal government's reform agenda, which includes significant changes to the pension and healthcare systems. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil emphasized the need for reforms that are fair and have public support.
Merz refrained from speculating on potential adjustments to the reform plans. Looking ahead, five state elections are scheduled for next year, including one in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous state, currently led by a CDU figure often mentioned as a potential successor to Merz. There are no more elections this year, and the upcoming contests will not take place in the eastern regions where the AfD is most popular.
Political science professor Thomas Poguntke noted that there was no indication of a leadership challenge to Merz, suggesting that influential regional leaders are distancing themselves from the national party at this time. He remarked that replacing Merz would not significantly alter the current situation, although he acknowledged that Merz has made mistakes that need addressing.