CDU chief open to AfD cooperation locally, prompting criticism, then backtracks

CDU leader Friedrich Merz expressed openness to cooperating with far-right AfD in local governments.
Merz said if an AfD mayor is elected, efforts should be made to continue working together in the city.
The comments drew criticism from CSU leader Markus Söder, who rejected any cooperation with AfD.
Merz later backtracked, clarifying on Twitter there would be no cooperation with AfD at any level.
Shift reflects rightward movement of historically center-right CDU as AfD gains in polls.