The 2025 German federal election has highlighted a growing political divide between East and West, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) making significant gains in the eastern regions. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) won strong support in the West, while the Social Democratic Party (SPD) suffered a historic loss across the country. The Left party, however, regained traction in the East, signaling a shift in the political landscape.
The AfD’s rise is especially noticeable in cities like Dresden and Leipzig, where the party achieved its biggest success yet. This surge comes as many voters in East Germany express dissatisfaction with traditional parties, driving younger voters towards far-right and far-left factions. The CDU, despite its victory in the West, struggled to make inroads in the East, where issues like representation and security continue to resonate with voters.
The SPD’s decline was sharp, with losses in both eastern and western constituencies, while the Free Democratic Party (FDP) failed to cross the 5% threshold required to enter the Bundestag. This shift suggests a deepening polarization in Germany’s political climate.
As CDU leader Friedrich Merz enters coalition talks, Germany’s future governance faces significant challenges. With a rising AfD and a strengthening Left party, the political landscape is increasingly fragmented, especially in the East.