Germany’s center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) won the national election on Sunday, February 16, 2025, replacing Social Democrat incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The CDU’s leader, Friedrich Merz, won around 29% of the vote, exit polls indicate.
Election Results and Coalition Prospects
The snap election was held amidst increasing worries about illegal immigration and a decelerating economy. Although the CDU became the largest party, the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) came in a close second, more than doubling its vote share from the previous election. Even with its success, the AfD will not be joining the new coalition government as Merz has said he will not work with the party.
In order to create a stable government, Merz will have to form a coalition with one or more of the other political parties in Germany. Negotiations for possible alliances are likely to take place soon after the official announcement of the results.
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Policy Direction Under Friedrich Merz
Friedrich Merz has committed to pursuing a 15-point package with the objectives of solving issues on immigration as well as tightened border control. This involves hardened border security as well as removing refused asylum claimants. The immigration policy expected to be supported by Merz is tougher compared to that currently supported by Scholz but less radical compared to the recommendations presented by AfD, supporting large-scale deportation.
Reactions and International Commentary
The CDU’s victory was congratulated by former U.S. President Donald Trump in a Truth Social post, saying it was a sign of Germany wanting more conservatism for energy and immigration policy. Trump’s statement projected good things for the future under Merz’s leadership, making comparisons between the outcome of Germany’s elections and the political direction in the United States.
Entrepreneur Elon Musk also expressed support for the AfD’s strong showing, which indicated the party’s increasing strength even if it were excluded from forming a coalition.
Looking Ahead
As Germany sets its sights on a new political era with Friedrich Merz, the focus will shift to coalition talks and the establishment of a government that can tackle the nation’s economic woes and immigration policies. The next national election is due in 2029, but the outcome of this election marks a dramatic change in Germany’s politics.
