Merz called on AfD voters to give him a chance:

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on voters of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to evaluate his government's performance based on its actions, ahead of regional elections in September that could mark the first time the party secures power at a state level. Speaking during a press conference in Berlin, Merz urged supporters of AfD to look closely at the work being done, emphasizing that efforts are focused on preserving freedom and peace in the country, as well as improving economic conditions. The regional elections, set for late September, have become a focal point in German politics, with AfD potentially gaining enough votes to secure a majority in the eastern federal state of Saxony-Anhalt. This would represent a historic shift, as AfD has yet to achieve such success at the local level. Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) currently trails behind AfD in national polls, raising concerns over the potential impact of the upcoming vote on the political landscape. During the 90-minute press conference, Merz highlighted the achievements of his administration in implementing reforms aimed at boosting growth within Europe’s largest economy. He stressed that these efforts are driven by a commitment to future generations, ensuring they can enjoy the same freedoms and stability that previous generations have known. “What we are doing today, we are doing for our country,” he stated, “and above all, for our children and grandchildren, so they may live as freely and peacefully as we did during the past 70, 75, or even 80 years.” Merz reiterated that his party will not break through what he calls the “Berlin Wall”, a metaphor for the taboo surrounding coalition agreements or cooperation with AfD. This stance reflects broader tensions within German politics, where mainstream parties have long resisted forming alliances with the far-right group due to fears of legitimizing extremist views. Political analysts suggest that the outcome of the regional elections could serve as a barometer for voter sentiment toward AfD, particularly among working-class and rural populations who have historically been more receptive to the party’s message. The CDU, which has traditionally held sway in many regions, faces increasing pressure to address growing discontent over immigration policies and economic inequality. In response to Merz’s call for scrutiny, some AfD representatives have expressed openness to dialogue, though they remain skeptical about the viability of cooperation with mainstream parties. Meanwhile, opposition leaders have warned against underestimating the influence of AfD, noting that its rise reflects deeper societal frustrations that must be addressed through inclusive policy-making rather than exclusionary rhetoric. As the election date approaches, public discourse around the issue continues to intensify, with both sides engaging in heated debates over the direction of German society. With the stakes high and the political climate volatile, the results of the regional elections are likely to shape not only local governance but also the trajectory of national politics in the coming months.