Friedrich Merz set to lead Germany as far-right party gains ground in election

Friedrich Merz is set to become Germany's next Chancellor, likely forming a coalition with the weakened Social Democrats. This follows a significant election where the far-right Alternative for Germany party gained 152 seats, marking its best performance since World War II. Voter turnout reached over 82%, the highest in united Germany's history. The previous governing coalition lost seats, with the Social Democrats dropping to 120, the Greens to 85, and the Liberal Party losing all representation. Merz's conservatives secured 208 seats, and if they partner with the Social Democrats, they will have a majority. However, no other parties are willing to collaborate with the AfD.