GERMANY STATE ELECTIONS: AfD MAKES GAINS, GREENS FALL BEHIND
BERLIN, Sept 15, 2025 - The state election in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany's most populous state, saw significant gains for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and losses for the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) and environmentalist Greens. According to preliminary results, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) secured the most votes with 33.3%, followed by the SPD with 22.1%, AfD with 14.5%, and the Greens with 13.5%.
The election had no direct consequences for the federal government in Berlin but was seen as a test of public opinion after the new coalition took power on May 6. "This result shows that our policies are resonating with voters," said CDU leader, Armin Laschet, in a statement. "We will continue to work towards creating a strong and prosperous North Rhine-Westphalia."
The AfD's gains were seen as a significant development, particularly given their right-wing extremist leanings. "This is a wake-up call for the federal government," said SPD leader, Lars Klingbeil. "We need to address the concerns of our voters and work towards creating a more inclusive society." The Greens, who had been gaining momentum in recent years, saw their support dwindle significantly.
The election was also seen as a test of the new coalition's policies. "This result shows that we have made mistakes," said Green party leader, Annalena Baerbock. "We need to listen more and act faster on climate change." The CDU's success was attributed to their strong local leadership and effective campaign strategy.
The state election saw around 13.7 million people cast their ballots, with over 20,000 parliamentary seats up for grabs in almost 400 towns and municipalities. The election had no direct consequences for the federal government but served as an important indicator of public opinion.
In related news, the AfD's gains have sparked concerns among civil rights groups and opposition parties. "This is a worrying trend," said a spokesperson for the human rights organization, Amnesty International. "We urge the federal government to take action against hate speech and extremism."
The full results are expected to be announced in the coming days. The election will likely have significant implications for the state's politics and policies in the months ahead.
Background:
North Rhine-Westphalia is Germany's most populous state, with a population of over 18 million people.
The state election was held on September 13, 2025.
The CDU has traditionally been the dominant party in North Rhine-Westphalia but saw significant gains from the SPD and AfD.
Additional perspectives:
The AfD's gains have been attributed to their effective campaign strategy and strong local leadership.
The Greens' losses were seen as a result of their failure to address voter concerns on climate change and economic issues.
The election was also seen as a test of the new coalition's policies, with many voters expressing dissatisfaction with the federal government's performance.
Current status:
Preliminary results show the CDU leading with 33.3%, followed by the SPD with 22.1%, AfD with 14.5%, and Greens with 13.5%.
The full results are expected to be announced in the coming days.
The election will likely have significant implications for the state's politics and policies in the months ahead.
Next developments:
The federal government is expected to respond to the election results and address concerns raised by civil rights groups and opposition parties.
The CDU, SPD, AfD, and Greens are likely to engage in post-election negotiations and coalition-building efforts.
*Reporting by Dw.*
