German Bundestag Opens 21st Session with Klöckner as President

Julia Klöckner was elected Bundestagspräsidentin, while Olaf Scholz's government transitions to a caretaker role, highlighting political polarization and calls for reform.

Julia Klöckner (CDU) was elected Bundestagspräsidentin with 382 votes, becoming the fourth woman to hold this position.
Alterspräsident Gregor Gysi opened the session with a wide-ranging speech that drew mixed reactions for its length and content.
The AfD's attempt to revert Alterspräsident selection rules to favor the oldest member failed, and their vice-presidential candidate, Gerold Otten, was rejected in multiple voting rounds.
The Bundestag's new composition reflects the AfD doubling its representation, underscoring heightened polarization within the chamber.
Klöckner emphasized the need for respectful discourse and proposed reforms to improve electoral processes and parliamentary functionality.