Friedrich Merz Expected to Form German Government After Elections

Following a significant election defeat for the Social Democrats (SPD), German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his commitment to completing his duties until a successor is appointed. The election saw the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) reclaim power, winning approximately 29% of the vote, while the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) doubled their support to around 21%. Friedrich Merz, the CDU's chancellor candidate, emphasized the urgency of forming a new government, stating that the world cannot wait for lengthy negotiations. Despite the SPD's historic low representation in the Bundestag, it may still play a role as a junior coalition partner. The elections signal a politically divided Germany, raising concerns about the future of liberal democracy in the country. Scholz acknowledged the defeat, emphasizing the SPD's ongoing importance in advocating for democracy and justice.