Germany is holding a national election. Here’s what’s at stake
Germany is currently holding a general election, with polls indicating a potential shift in leadership and the emergence of a new governing coalition. Key issues include immigration and the struggling economy, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) possibly becoming the second-largest political group, a first since the Nazi era.
Main candidates include Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), who is focusing on stricter immigration policies, and Alice Weidel of the AfD, advocating for anti-immigration measures. Incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) faces declining popularity, while the Green Party, led by Robert Habeck, may play a crucial role in coalition talks.
The election outcome will likely lead to complex coalition negotiations, as no party is expected to secure an outright majority. The AfD is anticipated to be excluded from any coalition government, reflecting ongoing tensions in German politics.