Friedrich Merz Emerges as Viewer Favorite in Heated German Election Debate

The TV debate saw contrasting performances from Scholz, Merz, Habeck, and Weidel, with Merz leading in polls and Scholz showing unexpected strength.

Friedrich Merz was rated as the most convincing candidate by 32% of viewers in a Forsa poll, followed by Olaf Scholz at 26%.
Scholz adopted a dominant approach, leveraging his government record and challenging opponents, particularly Alice Weidel, on key issues.
Robert Habeck struggled with the debate format but resonated with younger viewers and delivered a personal, emotional closing statement.
Alice Weidel's performance was criticized for its lack of impact, with fact-checks debunking several of her claims, including on energy prices and migration.
The debate addressed critical topics like migration, taxation, and education, with fact-checks revealing inaccuracies in statements from all candidates.