German Greens Secure Narrow Victory in Baden-Württemberg Election

The Green Party narrowly won the state election in Baden-Württemberg on Sunday, March 8, 2026, edging out Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in a closely contested race. The outcome signals a potential continuation of the current coalition government and highlights the growing strength of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD).

Close Race and Likely Coalition

Preliminary final results show the Greens securing 30.2% of the vote, just ahead of the CDU’s 29.7%. Both parties won 56 seats each in the state parliament, suggesting a likely continuation of their governing coalition, as they have done in the previous term.

AfD Gains Ground

The far-right AfD party experienced significant gains, receiving 18.8% of the vote – nearly doubling its result from the 2021 regional elections. The party now claims to be the largest opposition force in Baden-Württemberg.

SPD Suffers Historic Low

The Social Democrats (SPD) endured a disastrous election result, receiving only 5.5% of the vote – their worst showing in a state election. The party barely cleared the 5% threshold needed to secure representation in parliament. The SPD’s top candidate announced his retirement immediately following the vote.

Voter Turnout Increases

Voter turnout increased to 69.6%, up from 63.8% in the previous election five years ago.

Özdemir Declares Victory

Green Party frontrunner Cem Özdemir declared victory on Sunday evening, stating, “We won the election.” He is expected to become the state’s next premier.

CDU Candidate Takes Responsibility

CDU top candidate Manuel Hagel acknowledged responsibility for the election loss. His campaign was hampered by the resurfacing of a video containing sexist comments made during a school visit in 2018.

Looking Ahead

The election results in Baden-Württemberg set the stage for further regional votes across Germany this year. The outcome will likely influence the political dynamics at the national level, particularly regarding potential coalition formations and policy priorities.