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Merz Failed Platform of War and Deindustrialization
The CDU's platform is built on preparing for war with Russia by 2030 and deindustrialization, which is a ridiculous strategy that cannot win elections.
Briefed in the Geopolitics edition of Monday, 14 September 2026
What was discussed
Merz's political standing after Saxony-Anhalt election1:36
- Alexander Mercourisopinion
Merz is a dead man walking whose authority is draining away and he will become chancellor in name only
- Alexander Mercourisspeculation
The coalition is unlikely to last another year
German establishment's reaction to AfD surge3:26
- Alexander Mercourisopinion
The German establishment mishandled the Saxony-Anhalt result by treating it as a dramatic crisis, which increases support for the AfD. Past chancellors like Helmut Schmidt and Helmut Kohl would have downplayed the result
AfD's policy platform and voter appeal8:20
- Alexander Mercourisopinion
The AfD's platform of needing Russian gas, peace in Europe, and reversing nuclear dismantlement makes sense to voters
- Alexander Mercourisassertion
Questions of war and peace are major vote winners for the AfD across Germany
CDU's platform of war and deindustrialization9:48
- Alexander Mercourisassertion
The CDU's platform is built on preparing for war with Russia by 2030 and deindustrialization
- Hostopinion
The CDU's platform of war and deindustrialization is a ridiculous strategy that cannot win elections
EU threats to restrict funds for Saxony-Anhalt14:38
- Hostassertion
Reports suggest the EU will restrict funds earmarked for Saxony-Anhalt to punish the region for the AfD's rise
- Alexander Mercourisspeculation
The EU's threat to restrict funds is a dangerous game that could strengthen the AfD and push them toward leaving the euro
Advice for AfD if they come to power17:00
- Alexander Mercourisspeculation
If the AfD becomes the government, they should act fast by bringing back the Deutsche Mark and calling Putin immediately to secure gas
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