Merz intensifies criticism of Greens as Germany's election campaign nears end

Friedrich Merz, the conservative frontrunner in Germany's federal election, intensified his criticism of Green Party leader Robert Habeck. Merz labeled Habeck unqualified for economic leadership, referencing his failed heating law initiative. As the campaign nears its end, Merz's CDU/CSU bloc leads in polls with 29.5% support, followed by the Alternative for Germany at 21% and the Social Democrats at 15%. The Greens have 12.5%. Merz may need coalition partners to secure a majority, complicating potential negotiations due to his recent attacks on the Greens. Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the need for increased funding for modernization without compromising healthcare and pensions.