The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), have emerged victorious in Germany’s snap parliamentary elections, dealing a significant blow to Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD). According to preliminary results released by the Federal Returning Officer, CDU leader Friedrich Merz is now likely to become Germany’s next chancellor, marking a shift toward conservative governance in Europe’s largest economy.

The CDU and CSU alliance secured 28.6% of the vote, reclaiming their position as Germany’s dominant political force after their defeat in the 2021 elections. The results signal a rightward shift in German politics, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the outgoing “traffic light” coalition, which included the SPD, the Greens, and the Free Democratic Party (FDP). This coalition collapsed last year after FDP leader Christian Lindner withdrew support due to disagreements over budget policies.

Merz, a long-time advocate for pro-business policies and stricter immigration controls, expressed his commitment to forming a government that represents all Germans. “We will strive to address the pressing challenges facing our country, from economic stagnation to social cohesion,” Merz stated on X (formerly Twitter). He added that he hopes to have a new government in place by Easter, aiming to restore political stability after years of coalition disputes.

The right-wing, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party also made historic gains, securing 20.8% of the vote-the highest result in its history. The party’s success was particularly pronounced in eastern Germany, where it topped the polls in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia,........

© Blitz