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Fractured CDU Coalition Struggles Amid Rising Fuel Prices

4/22/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The CDU-led coalition under German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is fractured as it fails to deliver reforms in tax, pensions, and health care amid rising fuel prices tied to the Iran war.
Merz accused the SPD of blocking reforms, triggering backlash from SPD leaders.
Polls show the Alternative for Germany (AfD) at 26% and CDU at 25%.
Disagreements over stabilizing health care and managing fuel-price surges complicate the coalition’s response.

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Story summary

The CDU-led coalition under German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is fractured as it fails to deliver reforms in tax, pensions, and health care amid rising fuel prices tied to the Iran war.
Merz accused the SPD of blocking reforms, triggering backlash from SPD leaders.
Polls show the Alternative for Germany (AfD) at 26% and CDU at 25%.
Disagreements over stabilizing health care and managing fuel-price surges complicate the coalition’s response.