Germany prepares for crucial election as AfD aims for historic parliamentary gain

Germans will vote on Sunday in a crucial election, with Alice Weidel's Alternative for Germany (AfD) aiming to become the second-largest party in parliament. This follows the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government. Recent polls show the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leading with 30%, while AfD has risen to 21%. The election results may take several days to finalize, but reliable exit polls will be available shortly after voting ends. Coalition talks will begin after the election, which could take months. The CDU has stated it will not form a coalition with AfD, despite recent support for the party from Elon Musk, which has sparked controversy.