The results of the 2025 German federal election have brought significant shifts to the political stage, with the Union (CDU/CSU) achieving notable victories alongside the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD). According to early projections by ARD, CDU and CSU have garnered around 28.5% of the votes, up from 24.1% in 2021. The AfD followed closely with 20.7%, reflecting their doubling of support since the previous election where they stood at just 10.4%.
This election has not been kind to the Social Democrats (SPD), who slipped to their lowest point ever, achieving only 16.5% of the votes compared to 25.7% four years prior. The Greens, too, saw their support dwindle to 11.7%, down from 14.7%. The Left managed to claim 8.7% of the total votes, securing their place back in parliament after some difficulties during the last election. Meanwhile, the Free Democratic Party (FDP) faced the repercussions of their declining support, falling to 4.4% and at risk of not securing representation for the next term.
Voter engagement marked this election as historically high, with turnout hitting 84%, the greatest since German reunification. Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor candidate for the Union, confidently asserted, "Wir haben diese Bundestagswahl gewonnen," meaning, "We have won this federal election," as he expressed the urgency for rapid coalition discussions. Merz emphasized the need for Germany to be "reliably governed" again.
Conversely, Alice Weidel, the leader of the AfD, labelled their performance as "historisch," or historic, and offered the possibility of collaboration with the Union, stating, "Wir stehen bereit, mit einer ausgestreckten Hand" (We are ready, with outstretched hands). This gesture highlights the unprecedented acceptance of the AfD as one of the major forces shaping the new German government presence.
Olaf Scholz, the SPD leader, faced the harsh reality of his party's downfall, describing it as "Ein bitteres Wahlergebnis" (a bitter election result) and took full responsibility: "Ich habe dafür auch Verantwortung" (I also bear responsibility for this). His remarks were echoed by the SPD General Secretary, Matthias Miersch, who called it "ein bitterer Abend" (a bitter evening) for the party.
Despite the setbacks, Robert Habeck of the Greens conveyed satisfaction for achieving 11.7%, especially since the party has emerged from difficulties after not being part of the last governing coalition. His conviction was quite clear: "Es war alles nicht selbstverständlich" (it was all not self-evident), highlighting the importance of adapting and persevering politically.
The potential for new political alliances is inducing excitement at the prospect of forming the government, as Merz seeks to quickly coordinate coalition arrangements. The leading discussions may steer toward either traditional black-red (CDU/CSU-SPD) coalitions. Given the unique dynamics, the question remains whether the SPD will be inclined to partner with its historical rival after this defeat.
Christian Lindner, who spearheaded the FDP, is grappling with the dire results as well, indicating he may step back from politics, saying, "Wir haben es nicht geschafft, nach dem Aus der Ampel dieses Vertrauen ausreichend zurückzugewinnen" (We have not managed to regain this confidence sufficiently since the end of the traffic light coalition). His announcement reflects the growing calls for renewal within the FDP.
Despite gloomy news for some parties, the Left Party's Heidi Reichinnek expressed elation, calling the results "fantastisch schützen" and emphasizing the continued relevance of focusing on social issues for electoral success. Her party’s performance challenges the conventional wisdom within the Bundestag, as they strive to represent the voices often overlooked by traditional parties.
Looking to the future, the extent to which BSW (the new political alliance led by Sahra Wagenknecht) can secure parliamentary presence remains uncertain, as they hover around the required 5% threshold. Sahra Wagenknecht expressed her cautious optimism amid the potential reality of not crossing the threshold.
The diverse outcomes of the election have exposed fractures and changing dynamics within German politics, bringing forward discussions on how parties will navigate potential coalition challenges moving forward. With all eyes on coalition negotiations, it is of utmost importance for parties to swiftly react to voter sentiment, as the electorate has voiced their desire for competent governance.
Through alliances and engagements, the results signify the need for clear responsibility and swift action to address pressing issues within Germany. The challenges facing the incoming administration will require deft navigation of the new political terrain, setting the stage for the coming years.