Germany's Christian Democrats projected to win national elections under Friedrich Merz

Germany's national elections have resulted in a clear victory for the centre-right Christian Democrats, led by Friedrich Merz, who is projected to become the next chancellor. Early results show the Christian Democrats at 29%, with the far-right Alternative for Germany at 20% and the Social Democrats at 16%. This election marks a significant shift to the right, with the combined support for the centre-right and far-right parties reaching 48.5%, up from 34.5% in 2021. The Social Democrats' projected result is their worst in over a century, leading to potential changes in leadership. Merz aims to form a coalition government quickly, likely needing partners from the Social Democrats, Greens, or Free Democrats. He has ruled out a coalition with the Alternative for Germany. Scholz has indicated he will retire from politics following the election results.