Germany prepares for elections under new electoral law reforms

Germany is set to hold elections for its Bundestag on Sunday, marking the first test of a newly reformed electoral law. Nearly 60 million voters will participate, with the conservative Christian Democrats expected to lead. The new law aims to reduce the size of the Bundestag by eliminating "overhang" seats, capping the total at 630. This change affects how seats are distributed, potentially impacting coalition negotiations. Voters will cast two votes: one for a local candidate and another for a party. A party must secure either 5% of the second votes or three district wins to gain representation. This year, three parties are close to the 5% threshold, which could influence seat distribution.