Friedrich Merz leads in Germany's election as far-right AfD gains support

Friedrich Merz's conservative bloc has emerged as the frontrunner in Germany's national election, securing 28.5-29% of the vote, according to exit polls. However, Merz faces challenges in forming a stable governing coalition. Chancellor Olaf Scholz admitted defeat, with his Social Democratic Party projected to receive only 16-16.5%, marking their worst result in postwar history. The Greens are expected to secure 13.5%. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) nearly doubled its support, achieving 19.5-20%, the strongest showing for a far-right party since World War II. The AfD leader expressed intentions to form a coalition, despite Merz ruling out such an alliance.