5. The CDU/CSU and the 2021 Federal Election

This chapter examines the performance of the CDU/CSU during the Federal Elections of 2021. The election was a disaster for the CDU/CSU, as it suffered its worst-ever result in the history of the postwar Federal Republic. The chapter argues that the two parties began the campaign with a range of problems, encompassing the departure  Angela Merkel, a fractious and prolonged battle to replace her, and disunity over the campaign message. In selecting Armin Laschet as Chancellor Candidate, the party compounded its problems, as Laschet’s campaign faltered during the summer months and his performance during the televised debates was lacklustre. The Christian Democrats continue to attract some of their core voters but as these constitute a diminishing share of the electorate there is additional pressure to renew the core message. Although the Christian Democrats face an uphill battle to restore unity in circumstances in which there are competing visions about their future, there is nevertheless a strategic opportunity to develop a competitive programme for government and reclaim lost voters.