Polling is underway in Germany in one of the most contentious elections in recent history, as voters grapple with economic recession, rising unemployment, and a heated debate on immigration. The conservative Christian Democrats (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, are expected to secure around 30% of the vote, positioning them to lead the next government. Meanwhile, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is poised to make historic gains, with projections placing it second at approximately 20%—the highest support for an extreme right-wing party since World War II.
Around 59 million voters are eligible to cast their ballots across nearly 300 constituencies. Opinion polls indicate growing public anxiety over Germany’s prolonged economic slump, exacerbated by the loss of cheap Russian gas and waning demand from China. Job losses, particularly in the automotive sector, and inflation have further dampened the mood.
Immigration has become a flashpoint in the campaign. A series of fatal attacks allegedly involving asylum seekers has intensified the debate, bolstering the AfD’s support. Merz’s attempt to collaborate with the AfD on migration policy sparked mass protests, with hundreds of thousands taking to the streets to defend Germany’s traditional political consensus against far-right influence.
Exit polls are expected around 5 p.m. local time, with final results due later tonight. While a CDU-Social Democrats (SPD) “grand coalition” is possible, the inclusion of a third party, such as the Greens, may be necessary if smaller parties cross the electoral threshold.
If Merz replaces outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, he has pledged to strengthen Germany’s role in Europe and tighten border controls. However, coalition negotiations could take weeks, prolonging political uncertainty. Merz has expressed hope of forming a government by Easter.
Germany’s election is unfolding amid geopolitical turbulence, particularly the strain on U.S.-Europe relations caused by President Donald Trump’s direct outreach to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the Ukraine war. NATO allies are increasingly anxious, particularly Germany, which has long relied on U.S.-led security.
The AfD has found support from Trump’s inner circle, with billionaire Elon Musk praising the party as Germany’s best hope for renewal. Trump, however, offered a dismissive comment on Germany’s vote, saying, “I wish them luck, we got our own problems.”
As Germany awaits the final tally, the outcome could reshape its political landscape, with implications for both domestic policy and its role on the world stage.