https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/german-chancellor-merz-calls-state-election-a-disaster-for-his-party-but-vows-to-stay-onContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/german-chancellor-merz-calls-state-election-a-disaster-for-his-party-but-vows-to-stay-onhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/german-chancellor-merz-calls-state-election-a-disaster-for-his-party-but-vows-to-stay-on#u80516Tue, 22 Sep 2026 20:50:28 +0000German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will remain in office and continue pursuing reforms despite describing his party's performance in recent state elections as a "disaster." The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) secured a win in a north-eastern state, contributing to a historic defeat for Merz's conservatives. While the AfD co-chief expressed openness to coalition talks, other reports indicate the party currently lacks a viable government option. Merz is facing significant pressure to survive this political crisis as the far right seeks to replace his party's influe