Friedrich Merz celebrates CDU victory as Scholz takes responsibility for SPD defeat

Friedrich Merz celebrated his party's victory at CDU headquarters in Berlin, where supporters enjoyed a comedic video in his honor. He expressed gratitude to party workers but faces challenges in forming a parliamentary majority. Chancellor Olaf Scholz accepted responsibility for the Social Democratic Party's historic defeat and congratulated Merz. Scholz emphasized the SPD's stance against cooperating with the far-right AfD party. Coalition negotiations are expected to be difficult, particularly regarding migration policies. This political uncertainty may result in Scholz remaining in a caretaker role, potentially delaying important economic recovery efforts.