NPR
German chancellor stands his ground after his party loses in state elections
Monday, September 21, 2026
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the election results represent a setback for the political center but stated he would continue pursuing his federal agenda on tax and welfare reforms. His Christian Democratic Union party performed poorly in state elections held on Sunday. Merz did not announce any changes to his policy direction following the results.
Original reporting: https://www.npr.org/2026/09/21/g-s1-144231/germany-state-elections-merz
