German Election Shakeup: CDU/CSU Leads, Far-Right AfD Surges to Second Place

Germany’s Center-Right Alliance Poised for Victory in Federal Election

Exit polls suggest that Germany’s center-right alliance, led by the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), is set to win the latest federal election. The CDU/CSU bloc is projected to receive approximately 29% of the vote, positioning them as the frontrunners in forming the next government.

In a surprising turn of events, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is expected to secure second place with around 19.5% of the vote. This development comes at a critical time for Germany, Europe’s largest economy, as it grapples with various domestic and international challenges.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left Social Democratic Party (SDP) is anticipated to finish third, marking a significant shift in Germany’s political landscape. As single parties rarely secure majorities in German elections, the CDU, led by Friedrich Merz, will likely need to form a coalition, potentially seeking support from the SDP and/or the Green Party.

This snap election was triggered by the collapse of Germany’s three-party coalition in November, followed by Chancellor Scholz’s dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner over fiscal policy disagreements. Scholz’s subsequent loss of a confidence vote in December necessitated early national elections.

The CDU/CSU bloc’s campaign focused on key issues such as migration, advocating for stricter border controls and faster asylum processes. The alliance also supports maintaining Germany’s debt brake, reducing corporate tax rates, and streamlining bureaucracy. Additionally, they have committed to ongoing support for Ukraine amid current geopolitical tensions.

The election outcome holds significant implications for Germany’s role on the international stage, particularly as a leading NATO member and key military aid provider to Ukraine. It will also influence Europe’s future relations with the Trump administration in the United States.

Notably, the AfD entered the elections with momentum from historic regional successes and a controversial endorsement from Elon Musk. The tech billionaire appeared virtually at an AfD campaign event, supporting their anti-immigration stance and declaring the party as Germany’s savior on social media.

As coalition talks begin, all eyes will be on how Germany’s political landscape reshapes and the potential impact on both domestic and foreign policies.