Friedrich Merz speaks to voters. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) — Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), declared victory after exit polls projected the CDU/CSU bloc securing the largest vote share in the federal election.
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) marked a historic second-place finish, intensifying challenges for forming a governing coalition.
Speaking to supporters in Berlin, Merz assured voters that coalition talks would begin immediately. “We have won this election,” he stated. “Now we must move quickly to establish a stable government.”
Exit polls from broadcaster ARD indicate CDU/CSU securing 28.6% of the vote, AfD at 20.4%, and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) trailing at 16.3%.
The Green Party followed with 12.3%, while the Left Party and Free Democrats (FDP) polled at 8.5% and 4.7%, respectively. The pro-business FDP now faces an uncertain future, hovering below the 5% threshold required to enter parliament.
SPD Suffers Historic Defeat as Scholz Concedes
Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledged defeat, calling the results a “bitter outcome” for the SPD, which recorded its worst post-war election performance.
“We accept this result with humility and will continue to serve our country responsibly,” Scholz told supporters. He also confirmed he would not participate in coalition negotiations under a CDU-led government.
SPD’s losses contrast with the AfD’s unprecedented surge, positioning the far-right party as a dominant force in German politics. Party co-leader Alice Weidel credited the rise to growing public dissatisfaction with mainstream parties.
“We have doubled our votes while others lost half of theirs,” Weidel told supporters. She warned that if CDU collaborated with left-leaning parties, AfD could overtake them in future elections.
Coalition Talks Expected to Be Prolonged and Complex
No party in Germany has ever won a parliamentary majority outright under the current voting system, making coalition negotiations a crucial step. Merz now faces the challenge of securing partners willing to form a stable government.
Germany’s long-standing “firewall” policy, which prevents mainstream parties from working with the far-right, remains in place.
This policy effectively rules out any CDU-AfD coalition despite AfD’s strong showing. Instead, Merz may seek alliances with SPD, Greens, or FDP, though political differences could prolong discussions.
“We must act decisively and form a government capable of addressing Germany’s economic and security concerns,” Merz emphasized. He has previously expressed a preference for finalizing a coalition by Easter, though past negotiations have taken months.
Trump Hails “Great Day for Germany” as Europe Watches Closely
Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised the election outcome, calling it a “great day for Germany.” The CDU/CSU’s projected victory and AfD’s rise have drawn international reactions, with European leaders closely monitoring developments.
Merz, in a post-election panel discussion, underscored Europe’s need to assert independence in foreign policy.
“Strengthening Europe is our priority. We cannot rely on external powers whose commitments shift unpredictably,” he said, referencing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Russia.
Concerns over Germany’s role in European stability are mounting, particularly as Trump’s influence in U.S. politics grows.
Merz alluded to Washington’s unpredictability, stating, “The interventions from the U.S. were as dramatic as those from Moscow.”
AfD Gains Momentum
AfD’s strong performance underscores rising discontent over economic challenges, migration policies, and foreign affairs.
Protesters gathered across Germany before and after the election, reflecting both support for and opposition to AfD’s growing influence.
Weidel’s post-election remarks echoed themes from populist movements elsewhere in Europe. “We are the only party speaking for ordinary Germans,” she asserted, dismissing criticisms over AfD’s controversial policies.
Meanwhile, CDU’s handling of right-wing voter concerns remains a focal point. Merz previously proposed stricter migration controls and border security measures, aiming to regain conservative support. Failure to act on these promises could push more voters toward AfD in future elections.
Beyond coalition negotiations, Germany’s next administration must confront pressing economic concerns. Recession has weighed heavily on voters, and business leaders call for urgent measures to stabilize growth.
Germany’s role in European security is also under scrutiny. As Ukraine remains dependent on Western support, Berlin faces pressure to define its defense strategy amid shifting alliances. The new government will need to reassess its commitments as U.S. priorities evolve.
Merz has pledged to form a government that “protects Germany’s interests and restores stability.” However, if coalition talks drag on or fail, the country could face political deadlock, opening further opportunities for AfD and other opposition forces.
Election results signal a reshaping of Germany’s political landscape. CDU/CSU’s victory and AfD’s historic gains create a complex environment for governance. Coalition talks will determine the country’s direction, while both domestic and international stakeholders watch closely.
Merz now carries the responsibility of forming a government that addresses economic concerns, migration policies, and Germany’s role in global affairs. Success or failure in this process will shape German politics for years to come.
