Story perspectives

Merz Calls for Critical Voting, Promises to Block AfD

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Merz urged AfD supporters to assess his government beyond social-media narratives at a July 15 press conference.
He said the coalition will work to stop the AfD, which leads at 41% in Saxony-Anhalt, from winning regional majorities in September.
He claimed the coalition has regained footing despite 13-20% satisfaction and rejected a U.S. State Department grant scheme, saying foreign financing is illegal and warning against U.S. election interference.

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Story summary

Merz urged AfD supporters to assess his government beyond social-media narratives at a July 15 press conference.
He said the coalition will work to stop the AfD, which leads at 41% in Saxony-Anhalt, from winning regional majorities in September.
He claimed the coalition has regained footing despite 13-20% satisfaction and rejected a U.S. State Department grant scheme, saying foreign financing is illegal and warning against U.S. election interference.