Germany votes in crucial election as far-right support rises

Germany is holding a tense election as voters choose a new leader amid rising far-right support and immigration debates. The far-right Alternative for Germany party is polling at 21%, potentially its best result ever, while the Christian Democratic Union leads at 30%. The election is marked by a backdrop of economic stagnation and differing views on Ukraine. The CDU and AfD propose tax cuts, while the Social Democratic Party and Greens favor investment subsidies and tax increases for high earners. Coalition-building will be necessary, as no party is expected to win outright. Results may take time to finalize, despite polls closing at 6 p.m. local time.