The CDU is facing a significant internal crisis as members of its Kühlungsborn city association in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern resign en masse.

Frustration has erupted over party leader Friedrich Merz’s shift on key policies, including the relaxation of the debt brake and compromises on migration and climate neutrality.

The resignations, which include nearly the entire local leadership, highlight discontent with the party’s direction during coalition talks with the SPD.

Critics argue that the CDU has abandoned its core values, with one member calling the debt brake "the DNA of the CDU.

" Generalsekretär Philipp Amthor expressed regret over the departures but criticized the timing, urging members to await the outcome of negotiations.

This marks the largest membership loss for the CDU in the region, raising questions about Merz’s leadership and the party’s future.