Germans vote in federal election as far-right party gains ground

Germans are voting in the 2025 federal election, expected to result in a new chancellor. The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leads in polls, with Friedrich Merz as the likely candidate. The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is projected to come in second. This election marks a shift from 2021, when the Social Democratic Party (SPD) won. The SPD and the Greens, part of the previous ruling coalition, are now trailing. Voters will cast two ballots: one for a local representative and another for a party list. Coalition building will follow the election, as no party is likely to gain an absolute majority. The CDU may need partners like the SPD or Greens. The far-right AfD's rise will be closely monitored, despite major parties refusing to ally with them.