Overview
- Early ARD/ZDF projections place the CDU at about 30.5–30.6%, ahead of the SPD at roughly 26.5–26.9%.
- The AfD rises to around 20%, marking its strongest showing in a western German state and cementing an opposition role.
- The FDP falls well below the 5% threshold and leaves the Landtag, with Freie Wähler and the Left also projected to miss entry.
- The Greens land near 7.7–8.3% and signal a shift to opposition after the state’s Ampel coalition loses its majority.
- CDU lead candidate Gordon Schnieder proclaims “The CDU is back,” as SPD leaders label the outcome “very bitter” and acknowledge federal drag on the party.