Germany’s Election: Conservatives Triumph as Far-Right AfD Surges

Friedrich Merz’s conservatives won Germany’s election, with AfD rising to second place. Key campaign issues included economic stagnation and immigration. Trump praised the election, while Zelenskyy and NATO leaders expressed hopes for further collaboration. Merz aims to form a government soon but rules out coalition with the far-right AfD, which secured significant seats.

Provisional results indicate that conservative leader Friedrich Merz has won Germany’s national election, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party becoming the second-largest in parliament. Key issues during the campaign included concerns over Germany’s economic stagnation and immigration policies. The election unfolded amid ongoing uncertainties surrounding Ukraine and the geopolitical stance of Europe, particularly regarding the U.S. partnership.

Germany, being the most populous EU nation and a key NATO member, plays a vital role in international defense and security strategies. The country’s support for Ukraine has been significant, standing as its second-largest weapons supplier after the U.S. The election results suggest that Germany will shape Europe’s response to new challenges ahead, particularly those that stem from fluctuating U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration.

President Trump highlighted the election outcome on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing that Germans are frustrated with ineffective policies regarding energy and immigration. He stated, “Much like the USA, the people of Germany got tired of the no common sense agenda, especially on energy and immigration, that has prevailed for so many years. This is a great day for Germany.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Merz, expressing hope for ongoing collaboration to enhance security and peace in Europe. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also congratulated Merz, stressing the importance of increased defense spending and Europe’s commitment to shared security amidst current global tensions.

The electoral authority confirmed that Merz’s Christian Democrats, along with the Social Democrats, gained a combined majority in the Bundestag as smaller parties failed to meet the electoral threshold. This positions Merz as a strong candidate for chancellor, who aims to establish a government by Easter. He has dismissed potential coalitions with the AfD, despite their significant rise in support.

In this election, Merz’s party secured 208 seats compared to the AfD’s 152, while the incumbent Social Democrats obtained 120 and the Left party 64. The far-right AfD expressed aspirations to become the dominant political force in future elections, despite existing resistance from other parties due to their extremist views.

Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the Social Democrats remains in office following this electoral shift. The election was moved up after Scholz’s coalition faced severe challenges for over three years, resulting in considerable voter discontent. Merz acknowledged the heavy responsibilities on his shoulders, indicating his awareness of the challenges that await following his election victory as he addressed supporters at a rally.

The German national election has resulted in a victory for conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, while the far-right AfD party has gained ground to become the second-largest in parliament. The results reflect public concern over economic stagnation and immigration policies, as well as shifting dynamics in European politics concerning security and defense. Merz’s potential leadership promises a new government structure as he seeks coalition support without engaging the AfD.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com