Who really won the German elections?
With 33.3% of the vote, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) secured victory in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state. However, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) also has reason to celebrate, as it tripled its vote share, gaining significant ground in a region where it was once weak.
According to preliminary results, the CDU led with 33.3%, followed by the Social Democratic Party (SPD) at 22.1%. The AfD surged to 14.5%, the Greens won 13.5%, the Left Party (Die Linke) 5.6%, and the Free Democrats (FDP) just 3.7%.
The results affect some 20,000 seats across municipal councils, 31 regional bodies, and the state parliament. If no candidate wins more than 50% for key positions, run-offs will be held on September 28. Voter turnout reached 56.5%, up from 51.9% in 2020.
The AfD’s breakthrough in western Germany is seen as a turning point, with the party expanding its influence beyond its stronghold in the east. In Gelsenkirchen, the AfD narrowly missed winning the mayoral race. Analysts warn this reflects growing anxiety in the industrial heartland, hit by coal mine closures, technological change, and competition from China.
The Guardian noted the AfD aims to enter the federal government by 2027, while currently holding the largest opposition bloc in parliament. Its growing local presence may make it harder for mainstream parties to maintain their pledge of no cooperation with the far right.
The election took place against the backdrop of a weakened German economy, rising unemployment, and intense debate over migration—the AfD’s signature issue. CDU leader Friedrich Merz promised to revive growth, curb migration, and counter extremism, but the AfD’s momentum underscores a shifting political landscape in Europe’s largest economy.
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