Merz Leads Polls as Germany Prepares for High-Stakes Election

Germany is heading into a decisive election on Sunday that could see the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, return to power amid rising economic challenges and support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). Current polls indicate the CDU is favored to secure about 29% of the vote, while the AfD is projected at 21%, and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) led by Olaf Scholz trails at around 16%. Merz has criticized his rivals, particularly targeting Economy Minister Robert Habeck of the Greens, as his party seeks to regain control after the collapse of the previous coalition. The election is seen as pivotal not just for Germany but for Europe, especially in light of migration and security concerns heightened by recent attacks attributed to immigrants. The AfD's rise has been fueled by endorsements from figures like Elon Musk and U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, despite the party facing isolation from mainstream politics due to its controversial stance. The outcome of the election may lead to coalition negotiations that could prolong the uncertainty in German governance.