Germans prepare to vote in pivotal election as AfD gains support and left struggles

Germans will vote on Sunday in a crucial election that may influence the future of Germany and the European Union. Over 59 million citizens are eligible to participate as the hard-right AfD gains support amid challenges for centrist and left-leaning parties. The election follows the dissolution of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government after a no-confidence vote in November. The previous coalition, known as the "traffic light coalition," struggled with fiscal disagreements, leading to the need for new elections. This election features 29 parties, with the AfD's support marking a significant shift in German politics. This is the first time a German party has broken the barrier against the hard right.