AfD Wins Second State Election in Germany; Merz Calls Result 'Disaster'

Exit polls from Sunday's regional elections in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern show the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured approximately 37–38% of the vote, placing first ahead of the Social Democrats (SPD), who received 35.5%. This marks the AfD's second state victory in two weeks, following its near-record 43.8% performance in Saxony-Anhalt on September 6. Chancellor Friedrich Merz described the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern result as a "disaster" and assumed responsibility, but vowed to remain in office despite mounting pressure to resign. His Christian Democratic Union (CDU) achieved just over 5%, narrowly clearing the electoral threshold to enter the state parliament—its worst performance in a regional election since 1949.

Merz stated that Germany "needs changes, determination, firmness, and patience" to counter the AfD's surge. He cancelled his planned attendance at the United Nations General Assembly in New York and convened an emergency CDU presidium meeting Sunday to discuss the party's strategy. Merz's approval rating has fallen to a record low of 10–13%, with 88% of voters expressing dissatisfaction. He framed his reform program as an "antidote to authoritarian poison," asserting that living "as before" is not an option and that "Germany must become a country of new beginnings."

In parallel elections held Sunday in Berlin, the left-wing Die Linke party led with approximately 24.5–25.7%, followed by the CDU at 18.8–20%, and the AfD at 16%. While the AfD's high vote shares underscore its growing national prominence, other major parties have refused to form coalitions with it, making it unlikely the party will lead any regional government despite its electoral gains. Exit polls indicate the SPD will likely retain Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's governorship under Manuela Schwesig, who publicly criticized Merz's policies and demanded action on fuel price controls.

The results reflect deepening discontent with Merz's federal government, which faces challenges including economic stagnation, unpopular pension reforms, and rising inflation. Sources differ slightly on exact exit poll figures—some cite 37%, others 38.1% for the AfD—but all confirm it placed first in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The SPD's Schwesig characterized the election as "a warning directed at the chancellor and the entire government." Political analysts suggest that if the CDU's losses accelerate toward federal elections scheduled for late 2027, Merz's leadership may face fresh challenges despite stated support from eight regional governors.