Voting opened Sunday in a German general election that is expected to bring a new chancellor and a new governing coalition. This election has been particularly eventful, with key themes revolving around curbing mass migration and addressing the country's struggling economy.
Main Candidates for Chancellor
Friedrich Merz (CDU): A longtime frontrunner, Merz has taken a more aggressive stance on immigration compared to the Merkel era. He has faced criticism for his immigration policies and has denied any potential cooperation with the far-right AfD.
Alice Weidel (AfD): Weidel, the AfD's candidate for chancellor, is known for her staunch anti-immigration stance and controversial policies.
Olaf Scholz (SPD): The incumbent chancellor's party, the SPD, is facing a potential decline in votes, with Scholz's popularity waning due to internal party conflicts and economic challenges.
Robert Habeck (Green Party): Habeck, the Green Party's candidate for chancellor, is polling at around 13% nationally and could play a significant role in the formation of the next government.
Main Issues
Immigration and the economy have been central issues in this election. Concerns over immigration have been heightened by recent high-profile attacks, while Germany's economy has been struggling, partly due to external factors like the war in Ukraine and competition from China.
Possible Outcomes
Germany's government is likely to be formed through coalitions, with various options available for potential partnerships. The AfD is expected to be excluded from any coalition government, regardless of the election outcome.
Overall, the next German government is anticipated to take time to form, with no immediate resolution expected after the election results are announced.
