German Voters Head to the Polls
German voters went to the polls on Sunday, September 20, for elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Although these are regional elections rather than a national vote, their results could have important consequences for Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his governing coalition.
The elections come just two weeks after the AfD performed strongly in Saxony-Anhalt, putting additional pressure on Germany's established political parties.
Pressure on Chancellor Merz
Merz, who became chancellor in 2025, has faced growing criticism over Germany's economic difficulties, the cost of living and the government's reform agenda. Recent reports say dissatisfaction within his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has increased following the party's poor performance in Saxony-Anhalt.
Merz has said he intends to remain in office and complete his term. Senior CDU figures have also publicly emphasized the need for stability rather than an immediate leadership debate.
AfD Gains Under Watch
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is expected to make further gains in both states. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, recent polling placed the AfD close to the Social Democratic Party (SPD), while the CDU was near the 5% threshold required to enter the state parliament.
In Berlin, polling showed a closely contested race involving the Left Party, CDU, Greens, SPD and AfD. The final distribution of seats will determine which parties can form the next state government.
Why the Elections Matter
Germany's federal government is not directly chosen by these state elections. The next national Bundestag election is scheduled for 2029.
However, poor results for the CDU could intensify internal discussions about Merz's leadership and make it more difficult for his government to push its economic and social reforms.
The elections are also being watched as another measure of the AfD's growing support. Its performance could influence debates among Germany's mainstream parties about how to respond to the party's rise.
Voting and Results
Polling stations opened at 8 a.m. local time and were scheduled to close at 6 p.m. First exit polls were expected shortly after voting ended.
The final results will determine the composition of the two state parliaments and the political coalitions that can govern them. For Merz, the results will also provide an important indication of the level of political support for his government following a difficult period.
Latest update: September 20, 2026. Final election results may differ from polling and early projections.