This shows the folly of being in a grand coalition. Had the SPD been in opposition, it might have picked up votes of the discontented, and might have taken power. Instead, they are seen to be part of the problem, and lost votes.

A similar situation occurred with the British Liberal Democrats, who were a one-term wonder in a coalition.

Meanwhile, would the Greens find enough in common for the FDP for both to be coalition partners? Or would there be an impasse, leading to quick re-elections?