Friedrich Merz wins German vote and begins coalition talks

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's conservative CDU/CSU, won over 28% of the vote, defeating Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD. Merz now faces the challenge of forming a coalition government amid a divided society and a struggling economy. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gained over 20%, complicating coalition talks. Merz aims to establish a stable government quickly, reaching out to former rivals in the SPD while avoiding cooperation with the AfD. Merz's victory comes after a turbulent campaign focused on immigration. He plans to negotiate policies with other parties, seeking a government in place by mid-April.