Scholz and Merz prepare for final debate ahead of German election

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and opposition leader Friedrich Merz will debate on Wednesday, just days before the election. Key topics will include immigration, security, and the economy, amid the rising influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany party. The AfD has gained significant support, polling around 20 percent, while Merz's CDU/CSU alliance leads at about 30 percent. Merz has stated he will not form a coalition with the AfD, despite their recent parliamentary support. Polling shows 40 percent of respondents view Merz as more competent than Scholz, who received 28 percent. The debate may also address recent U.S. policy changes regarding the Ukraine war, which have surprised European allies.