Germany holds early election as economy and migration dominate voter concerns

Germany is holding an election to choose a new government, seven months earlier than planned, after Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition collapsed. Voters are concerned about the economy, migration, and the war in Ukraine. The center-right opposition, led by Friedrich Merz, is favored to win, with polls showing strong support for the far-right Alternative for Germany party. Scholz's Social Democrats are polling at their lowest postwar levels. The election outcome may lead to a coalition government, as no party is expected to gain an outright majority. Key issues include economic recovery and migration policies, with Merz proposing stricter border controls.