The Socialist Left party leads the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in polls ahead of Berlin's state election on September 20, 2026, with 21% support, according to Deutsche Welle. The AfD is at 18%, the same report indicates. Elif Eralp, the candidate for the Socialist Left, is distributing free meals to voters in an effort to boost support, as reported by Tagesschau. Eralp is handing out a meal consisting of mashed potatoes, oven-roasted vegetables, rolls, and a banana for three euros, Tagesschau adds.
The CDU, a major conservative party, is preparing for the worst-case scenario in the upcoming Berlin election, according to Süddeutsche Zeitung. The party is taking steps to mitigate potential losses, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the election outcome.
Elif Eralp, the candidate for the Socialist Left, is actively campaigning by providing free meals to voters, a strategy aimed at increasing voter turnout and support for her party. Eralp's efforts include distributing a meal that costs three euros, which includes mashed potatoes, oven-roasted vegetables, and rolls, along with a banana, as reported by Tagesschau.
The CDU is taking proactive measures to prepare for potential election losses, indicating a cautious approach to the upcoming state election, Süddeutsche Zeitung reports. The party's preparations reflect the volatile political landscape and the need to adapt to changing voter preferences.

