Germany votes in high-stakes election

Germans are heading to the polls today in a pivotal election shaped by economic woes and security concerns. Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is the frontrunner to replace Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose government collapsed last year.

Merz has pledged to revive the economy, tighten immigration policies, and strengthen Germany’s role on the world stage. However, he will likely need to form a coalition, with Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) or the Greens as potential partners.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is set to make historic gains, possibly becoming the second-largest party. Despite this, Merz has ruled out any alliance with them, reaffirming the CDU’s “firewall” against the far right.

Voter sentiment has been driven by economic stagnation and recent terrorist attacks, with the SPD polling at historic lows. Coalition talks could be lengthy, delaying key decisions for Europe’s largest economy.

The election’s outcome will shape Germany’s stance on migration, defense spending, and relations with both the EU and the US. Polls close at 18:00 (17:00 GMT), with initial results expected later tonight.