CDU Mulls Minority Government and Limited AfD Cooperation After Saxony-Anhalt Setback
Following the CDU's poor performance in Saxony-Anhalt, party leaders are discussing a possible minority cabinet and occasional support from the AfD, while also weighing a leadership change.
After the CDU suffered a historic loss in the Saxony-Anhalt state election, senior party figures are openly debating a change of chancellor and new governing arrangements. Internal meetings reveal that a minority administration, possibly sustained by selective AfD votes, is being seriously considered despite previous denials. The plan would see Labor Minister Bärbel Bas removed and the SPD withdrawn from one outlet coalition.
Candidates for Merz's replacement include North Rhine-Westphalia premier Hendrik Wüst, who enjoys cross-party appeal but faces upcoming state elections, and Hesse premier Boris Rhein, a traditional conservative whose stance on the "firewall" policy draws internal criticism. The discussions reflect a broader shift within the Union as regional leaders distance themselves from Merz's leadership.
Why it matters
The CDU's internal turmoil could reshape Germany's federal government and influence future coalition dynamics.
How this story developed
- Aug 23 Merz warns AfD win in Saxony-Anhalt could scare off foreign investors
- Sep 7 The AfD is targeting a vote share above 45 % to seek an outright majority.
- Sep 7 Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the AfD’s strong showing in Saxony-Anhalt marks a turning point for Germany, warning of broader repercussions.
- Sep 7 AfD announced it will begin talks with potential partners after falling short of a majority.
- Sep 8 Günter Krings, a member of the German Bundestag, described the recent Saxony-Anhalt vote as far worse than expected, with the AfD securing 43.8% of the ballots. He argued the CDU should not entertain discussions about replacing Chancellor Friedrich Merz so soon after the far-right's victory. Krings urged the party to focus on rebuilding its credibility and blamed EU decisions for part of voter anger. The CDU’s share fell to 17.2%, roughly half of its previous support.
- Sep 8 CDU leaders proposed a working group to study a possible ban of the AfD.
- Sep 9 Former US president Donald Trump praised the Alternative for Germany (AfD) after its impressive result in Saxony-Anhalt, blaming the country's immigration policies.
- Sep 9 Trump posted a congratulatory message to the AfD on Truth Social after the Saxony‑Anhalt results.
- Sep 9 Merz and AfD leader Alice Weidel clashed in a Bundestag budget debate following the Saxony‑Anhalt result.
- Sep 10 Claudia Obert resigned from the CDU and Tino Schomann publicly demanded Merz’s resignation.
- Sep 11 AfD top candidate Ulrich Siegmund said weapons from a potential Elbit Systems plant could support upcoming deportation efforts, sparking criticism.
- Sep 11 Only the BSW agreed to talks as all other parties declined, and Chancellor Merz rebuked Donald Trump’s congratulatory post.
- Sep 12 BSW chairman Fabio de Masi publicly denounced Siegmund's remarks.
- Sep 12 Markus Söder publicly rejected calls to replace Chancellor Merz.
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