Germany is voting today in snap elections following the breakdown of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’ three-party ruling coalition in November. DW will provide the latest updates and multimedia content, including analysis of the vote.
Based on an ARD-Deutschlandtrend poll from January, the most significant issues for voters include immigration, the state of the German economy, foreign policy, and climate change.
The conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU)/Christian Social Union (CSU) alliance, led by Friedrich Merz, is leading in the polls and aims to be a “strong voice” in Europe, as stated at the last CDU rally before the election.
However, it is predicted that they will not have enough votes to govern alone.
According to polls, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is in second place. However, other parties have stated that they will not work with AfD, which means they will likely not be included in the government.
Currently in third place, the ruling Social Democrats (SPD), led by the current Chancellor Scholz, may become coalition partners for the CDU. The environmentalist Greens are also a potential option.
Depending on the outcome and the accuracy of the polls, the CDU may have to govern with one or two other parties.