# Berlin's left turn threatens Merz and federal stability

> SPD and Greens in Berlin are in talks with the Left Party, raising concerns about Elif Eralp as mayor and antisemitism disputes within the coalition.
- Title: Berlin's left turn threatens Merz and federal stability
- Summary: SPD and Greens in Berlin are in talks with the Left Party, raising concerns about Elif Eralp as mayor and antisemitism disputes within the coalition. SPD and…
- Keywords: berlin, spd, greens, left party, elif eralp, friedrich merz, coalition talks, antisemitism, politics, world, Berlin's, left
- Source: POLITICO — https://politico.eu/podcast/berlin-playbook-podcast/elif-eralp-und-friedrich-merz-neues-berlin-problem
- Published: 2026-10-09T03:10:13+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: berlin, spd, greens, left party, elif eralp, friedrich merz, coalition talks, antisemitism, politics, world
## Berlin's left turn alarms Merz
SPD and Greens in Berlin are seriously negotiating with the Left Party on forming a government. Friedrich Merz watches with concern over a possible mayor Elif Eralp.
## Radical demands and antisemitism tensions
Radical demands are on the table in Berlin coalition talks. Antisemitism disputes within the Left Party threaten to tear apart the government formation process.
## Pension reform deadlock between Union and SPD
Union and SPD are hardening positions on pension reform. A new Sherpa meeting will clarify whether the pension package is split or a retirement age of seventy years looms.
## Key takeaway

SPD and Greens in Berlin are negotiating with the Left Party on forming a government, alarming Friedrich Merz over potential radical policies and antisemitism tensions.