Politics · World News Bureau
Merz pledges to continue despite CDU setbacks in German state votes
Germany's centre-right CDU party suffered significant losses in elections across Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, according to exit polling. Chancellor Friedrich Merz vowed to press ahead despite the setbacks.
LSN World News ·
Friedrich Merz reaffirmed his commitment to leading Germany on Tuesday following disappointing results for his centre-right Christian Democratic Union in two major state elections.
Exit polls indicated substantial losses for the CDU in balloting held in Berlin and the northeastern state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The setbacks represent a test of confidence for Merz, who took office as chancellor in February after his party's stronger showing in federal elections held the previous month.
Despite characterizing the results as damaging, Merz signaled his intention to remain in his position and continue pursuing his policy agenda. The statement came as the CDU assessed the implications of the regional vote for its broader political standing.
The losses in both states underscored the challenges facing Germany's government coalition amid economic and political pressures. Regional elections typically serve as indicators of public sentiment ahead of subsequent national-level contests.