Merz calls CDU defeat in Saxony-Anhalt worst in decades

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called the CDU's result in Saxony-Anhalt its worst election defeat in decades, saying he is "deeply shocked" and that consequences will follow. He stressed the outcome cannot be met with business as usual. Merz acknowledged the result was unexpected and accepted it as democratic, but warned that nearly 60 percent of voters backed parties questioning democratic institutions. He defended the coalition's reform agenda while admitting the government must communicate its policies better to voters. State premier Sven Schulze said the CDU no longer holds a mandate to govern, declaring the party is now in opposition and that the mandate lies with the AfD. His political future remains open.