German Election Results 2025: CDU/CSU Claims Victory as AfD Surges, SPD Declines

The German election results 2025 have dramatically reshaped the country’s political landscape, with the center-right CDU/CSU alliance, led by Friedrich Merz, emerging as the largest political force. The CDU/CSU won 28.5% of the vote, positioning itself as the central player in the next government. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) made historic gains, securing 20.8%—its highest national result to date.

These election results signal major shifts in German voter sentiment, reflecting growing discontent with the outgoing traffic light coalition led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), which suffered a significant setback, garnering only 16.4% of the vote. As coalition negotiations begin, the possibility of a “grand coalition” between the CDU/CSU and SPD appears increasingly likely, potentially offering Germany a more stable government after years of political fragmentation.

CDU/CSU Wins Amid Public Desire for Stability

The CDU/CSU’s 28.5% win under the leadership of Friedrich Merz marks a comeback for Germany’s traditional conservative bloc after years in the opposition. Merz campaigned on a platform of economic stability, national security, and restoring public trust in government. He has pledged to form a coalition government by Easter, signaling swift negotiations and a clear intent to provide a steady hand during a time of geopolitical uncertainty and domestic discontent.

With no party securing an outright majority, coalition-building will be essential, and the CDU/CSU is now in a position to choose its preferred partners. Merz has hinted at the SPD as a viable coalition ally, despite their recent losses, to avoid relying on fringe parties and to maintain centrist governance.

AfD’s Historic Surge Raises Concerns

The AfD’s record-breaking 20.8% marks a turning point in German far-right politics. Particularly strong in former East German states, the AfD’s performance reflects deep voter dissatisfaction with mainstream parties on issues like immigration, national identity, and economic inequality.

The rise of the far-right in Germany has set off alarms across Europe, with politicians and analysts warning of the erosion of democratic norms and the normalization of extremist rhetoric. While the AfD remains politically isolated—no major party has signaled a willingness to cooperate with them—their increasing support cannot be ignored in future political calculations.

SPD Suffers Major Decline

The SPD’s poor performance, dropping to just 16.4%, reflects growing public frustration with Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership and the outgoing coalition’s handling of key issues such as inflation, housing shortages, and energy prices. Once Germany’s dominant center-left force, the SPD now finds itself weakened but still relevant as a potential junior partner in a CDU/CSU-led grand coalition.

The SPD’s willingness to enter into another coalition after its electoral losses remains uncertain. However, many within the party may view coalition participation as a way to remain influential and prevent further erosion of their support base.

Greens, The Left, and New Movements

The Greens secured 11.6% of the vote, a modest result compared to their past successes. Their position in potential coalition talks is limited unless a more complex multi-party alliance emerges—something Merz appears keen to avoid.

On the left, Die Linke (The Left) surprised observers by gaining 8.8%, a notable improvement compared to past elections. Their populist messaging and working-class appeal have resonated in areas disillusioned with both traditional left and right parties.

Meanwhile, the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, a new left-wing populist party, failed to pass the 5% threshold required for parliamentary entry, despite considerable media attention. Similarly, the Free Democratic Party (FDP) fell below the threshold, leading to the resignation of its leader Christian Lindner, marking a dramatic collapse for the liberal party once pivotal in coalition governments.

Coalition Building: Toward a Grand Coalition?

Given the fragmented results, a grand coalition between the CDU/CSU and SPD is seen as the most likely outcome. Though such arrangements have been criticized in the past for stifling political competition, they often offer a degree of stability and centrist policymaking that could benefit Germany during global uncertainties.

Merz has indicated he wants to avoid protracted coalition talks and has emphasized the need to form a stable government before Easter. His emphasis on European defense independence, particularly in light of concerns about the reliability of U.S. support under Donald Trump’s potential return, suggests that Germany may adopt a more assertive stance in EU and NATO affairs.

Future Implications for German and European Politics

The 2025 German election results highlight a shifting political mood in Europe’s largest economy. The CDU/CSU’s victory, the AfD’s surge, and the SPD’s decline illustrate how traditional political structures are being challenged. Concerns about the far-right gaining legitimacy are now central to the European conversation.

At the same time, Friedrich Merz’s leadership may offer a return to more conventional governance—if a coalition can be successfully formed. His focus on economic reform, defense policy, and EU stability will shape not only Germany’s direction but also its influence in the broader European Union.

Conclusion

The German election results of 2025 mark a defining moment in the country’s political evolution. With the CDU/CSU back in a leading role, coalition negotiations will determine whether Germany embraces centrist stability or faces further political polarization. As Europe watches closely, the next few weeks will be critical in shaping the future of German governance and its role on the global stage.