Why isn’t the local mainstream media reporting on the CDU’s problems in Germany? Politico has been running articles about the problems in the German CDU since the end of July.

Germany’s governing Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is facing its most serious internal crisis since returning to power in 2025. Reports emerging from Berlin suggest that Chancellor Friedrich Merz is under intense pressure from within his own party, with speculation mounting that he could announce his resignation on 10 August. While no official announcement has yet been made, the scale of the internal dissent has transformed what began as a cabinet reshuffle into a wider leadership crisis.

The crisis has developed rapidly over the past few weeks. It began with the resignation of Jens Spahn, one of Merz’s closest political allies and leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group. Rather than restoring confidence, the subsequent cabinet reshuffle exposed deep divisions within the party. The dismissal of Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, confusion over his replacement, and criticism of Merz’s management style fuelled dissatisfaction among CDU parliamentarians and regional leaders.

According to reports citing senior CDU sources, Merz’s authority within the party has eroded significantly. Several influential figures are said to believe that he can no longer unite the party or effectively communicate its political agenda. One CDU member quoted in reports described the Chancellor as having reached “a dead end,” reflecting the growing concern that his leadership has become a liability rather than an asset.

The timing of the crisis is particularly significant. Germany faces important regional elections in September, including contests in Berlin, Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Current polling suggests that the CDU could perform poorly, while the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) continues to strengthen its position. Many within the CDU fear that further electoral setbacks could seriously weaken the party’s ability to govern and damage its long-term prospects.