Briefing
In several reports from party events on 2 and 3 November 2026, the Christian Democratic Union’s grassroots level openly criticised Chancellor Friedrich Merz Friedrich Merz. Local party chairs and delegates complained that the Chancellor too often seemed focused on policy papers rather than the realities of many voters’ lives; they called for results that people could feel more directly. Representatives from local branches cited energy prices, social support and a clearer strategy for dealing with the AfD.
Against the backdrop of defeats in several state elections many grassroots activists believe the party needs to change its communications strategy and place greater emphasis on its work in the regions. Observers say the conflict between measures that would have an immediate effect for voters and the government’s long-term coalition work has become apparent since the September elections. At the same time, several state premiers publicly stressed that the party must not descend into disputes over personnel and must find united responses to its election defeats.
Participants reported heated debates at the regional conferences: some called for consequences for individuals, while others warned against further internal divisions. Representatives of the grassroots are demanding a clearer line towards the coalition partner in Berlin and a more pronounced distinction from the far right. Party leaders and state associations, however, emphasised that formal committees had so far not accepted any motions calling for a change of leadership, and that practical political measures should take priority.
The party’s future course will depend on whether its leadership quickly proposes concrete measures that are visible at local level and ease concerns among local party members. Until such responses are forthcoming, continued unrest within the party and a negative impact on perceptions of the government’s work are to be expected.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).