German citizens are voting today in early parliamentary elections, which will determine the future of Europe’s strongest economy.
Polling forecasts show the Christian Democrat-Christian Socialist coalition, led by Friedrich Merz, is expected to win just over 30%.
The far-right Alternative for Germany, led by Alice Weidel, is expected to secure 21%.
The Social Democrats, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, are projected to garner 15%, followed by the Greens with 13%.
The Left Party has risen to 9%.
Polls are open from 09:00 to 18:00 local time, with nearly 60 million Germans eligible to vote.
Analysts predict Merz may face challenges in forming a coalition government, potentially leading to months of negotiations.
Until then, Chancellor Scholz will continue as acting chancellor.