Bundestag Rejects CDU's AfD-Backed Migration Bill

The German Bundestag narrowly rejected a controversial migration bill, marking a significant setback for conservative leader Friedrich Merz, who attempted to pass the legislation with support from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), a move that broke a longstanding political taboo. This rejection came amidst protests and fierce criticism from across the political spectrum, including former Chancellor Angela Merkel, who condemned the reliance on AfD votes as a threat to democratic norms. The bill sought to impose stricter immigration measures, including expanded deportation powers and permanent border controls, reflecting a public demand for tighter migration policies. Despite polls suggesting Merz as a frontrunner for the upcoming federal election, this episode has cast doubt on his leadership and strategy. The German public remains divided, with a majority supporting tougher asylum policies but opposing any political collaboration with the AfD. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's minority government, alongside the Greens, opposed the bill, maintaining a firm stance against far-right cooperation.