Scholz and Merz make final voter appeals ahead of German elections

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and opposition leader Friedrich Merz are making final appeals to voters ahead of Sunday’s snap elections. The CDU party, led by Merz, is currently polling at 30%, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is at 20%. Merz promises to strengthen Germany's economy and its role in the European Union, emphasizing the need for Europe to assert its interests against global powers. Scholz, facing a coalition collapse, aims to counter the AfD's rise, which has gained support amid rising social tensions. The elections come after significant political upheaval, with Scholz advocating for increased defense spending and continued support for Ukraine. The outcome could reshape Germany's political landscape and its position in Europe.