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Germany's CDU Faces Election ‘Disaster’; Merz Vows to Stay On

September 21, 2026

Summary

Germany's ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) suffered heavy losses in two state elections, including in Angela Merkel's home state, prompting Chancellor Friedrich Merz to call the results a 'disaster' but affirm his intention to remain in power.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • German chancellor meets CDU leaders to shore up support after more defeats
  • Is Germany’s leader Friedrich Merz doomed as far right wins again? - CNN
  • Germany’s Merz Vows to Stay After Another State Election ‘Disaster’
  • Germany’s Merz ‘grateful’ centre-left SPD wants to stay in coalition after CDU’s heavy losses – Europe live
  • Latest German election humiliation puts Merz on borrowed time as CDU unrest grows

Center

  • German voters turn to left and far-right as 'disaster' for ruling CDU threatens pro-growth reforms
  • Germany's Merz Vows to Stay After Record Election Loss
  • Germany’s Merz struggles to stay on track after humiliating regional election defeat - AP News
  • German Chancellor Merz calls state election a 'disaster' for his party but vows to stay on

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