Merz's CDU Under Pressure in Two State Elections

Nearly four million Germans are voting on Sunday in state elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The results could further increase political pressure on Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Polling stations are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to the daily Le Monde.

The vote comes two weeks after a significant success for Alternative for Germany (AfD) in Saxony-Anhalt. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, polls suggest a close race between the AfD and the Social Democrats (SPD) led by regional leader Manuela Schwesig.

Surveys show the CDU hovering near the 5% threshold required to enter the state parliament. Failing to clear it would be unprecedented for the party in the state. The situation is also tense in Berlin, where the latest polls show the CDU vying for first place with the left-wing Die Linke party.

The elections are taking place amid growing dissatisfaction with the Merz administration. The chancellor is facing criticism over the economic situation, energy prices and controversial reforms. An Infratest Dimap poll found that only 13% of respondents were satisfied with his performance in September.

High fuel prices are also a major campaign issue, and Merz's government has therefore announced plans for tax breaks on fuel. The CDU leadership is set to discuss next steps after the results are released.

(mja)