Merz Faces Press After AfD Wins Saxony-Anhalt State Election

German Chancellor Merz is set to face the press at noon following the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, where the AfD emerged as the strongest party. AfD leader Siegmund refuses compromises and threatens new elections if unable to form a government. Siegmund stated cooperation is only possible with those supporting the AfD's demand for clear political change, ruling out broad compromises. He warned that if this fails, new elections would occur, predicting the AfD would then achieve "50 or 55 percent." AfD co-leader Chrupalla sought to reassure the public, saying "nobody needs to be afraid of us," and mentioned integrated migrants with German passports would not face deportation. Holocaust survivor Eva Umlauf expressed shock, while Verdi and Berlin CDU politician Evers condemned the result.