Campaigning intensifies as Germany approaches snap election day
rte.ie —
Campaigning is nearing its end in Germany's snap election, with CDU leader Friedrich Merz promising to restore Germany's leadership in Europe. The election is influenced by economic concerns, immigration issues, and the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany party. The CDU/CSU coalition leads in polls, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats are in third place. The far-right AfD party has gained significant support, particularly in eastern Germany, and is expected to secure second place. Voter concerns center on the economy, which has struggled due to the war in Ukraine and rising unemployment. The CDU has ruled out forming a coalition with the AfD.