Schwesig demands different tone from Merz after AfD win in Saxony-Anhalt

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces sharp criticism from SPD leader Manuela Schwesig, who demands a different tone from him following the AfD's victory in Saxony-Anhalt. Schwesig argues Merz's comments about work ethic ignore the reality of hardworking citizens in her state. Schwesig specifically criticizes Merz for rejecting SPD proposals on fuel price caps and windfall taxes while ignoring high gasoline prices. She insists the chancellor must support working-class Germans, as her SPD trails the AfD in polls ahead of the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern election. The criticism comes as Schwesig seeks re-election in two weeks, with her party at 32 percent against the AfD's 35 percent. She also warns that government reforms must be fair, citing 81 percent dissatisfaction with pension and care policies.