Local elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern could deepen pressure on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, whose CDU is facing potentially serious losses. The contests follow the AfD’s landslide victory in Saxony-Anhalt, where the CDU’s vote reportedly halved, fuelling speculation that Merz could eventually be replaced if his party’s fortunes do not improve.

Polls suggest the CDU could lose power in Berlin and is only narrowly above the 5% threshold for entering Mecklenburg-Vorpommern’s parliament. The AfD is seeking another strong result, particularly in eastern Germany, while the centre-left SPD has recovered behind state premier Manuela Schwesig. Merz’s poor approval ratings reflect frustration over the weak economy, high energy costs, immigration debates and his blunt calls for Germans to work more, although party supporters argue he is dealing with problems inherited from previous governments.