German Parties Discuss Steinmeier Succession and Berlin Coalition

In Germany in late September 2026, CSU and SPD politicians are pressing for clarity on who will succeed Frank-Walter Steinmeier as federal president. At the same time, the SPD in Berlin has decided to open coalition talks with the Left Party (Linke) following state elections, while the Greens are positioning themselves for a role with the new coalition partner. CDU and SPD leaders are drawing opposing conclusions from the state election results, and Chancellor Friedrich Merz is reported to be facing difficult times.