Germany’s political landscape is growing more polarized after two key state elections delivered setbacks for Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the far-right AfD won more than 38%, while Merz’s CDU suffered its worst-ever result and failed to re-enter the state parliament. In Berlin, the far-left Left Party emerged victorious and is set to lead the city’s government.

The results increase pressure on Merz, exposing declining support for mainstream parties and deepening divisions across Germany’s political spectrum.