The far-right AfD party secured a second state election victory in Germany, with 37.3% of the vote in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, as Merz's CDU fell to a historic low of 4.9%.
The AfD's victory in the northeastern state marks its second top-place finish this month, with the party continuing to gain traction despite its exclusion from power by mainstream parties. The CDU's collapse in the state election follows a similar loss in Berlin, where its vote share dropped to 19%.
Merz, facing a crisis of confidence, has vowed to continue his reform agenda despite the challenges posed by the AfD's rising influence. Analysts warn that the CDU's struggles could lead to political paralysis, exacerbating economic weakness and increasing the likelihood of AfD success in future elections.
The AfD's success is attributed to its ability to appeal to voters dissatisfied with the status quo, including those who oppose Ukraine support and desire a return to energy flows through Nord Stream. The party's growing strength highlights the challenges facing Merz's government as it navigates a complex political landscape.