Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) won the election in Rhineland-Palatinate, western Germany, on Sunday. Projections indicate the CDU secured just over 30% of the vote, surpassing the Social Democrats (SPD).
The result marks a significant shift, poised to end the SPD’s 35-year rule in the state and provide the next state premier from the CDU. The election was closely watched as a test for Chancellor Merz, who has faced challenges gaining voter traction.
Both the CDU and the far-right Alternative for Germany party made considerable gains in the election. Run-off local elections also took place in Bavaria, with particular attention on the mayoral race in Munich.
The SPD experienced a “bitter” defeat after decades in power. Provisional results confirm the CDU’s victory in Rhineland-Palatinate.