Germany Prepares for February 2025 Bundestag Election After Coalition Collapse

Five candidates, including incumbent Olaf Scholz and CDU's Friedrich Merz, compete for the chancellorship as voters head to polls on February 23.

The Bundestagswahl 2025 was moved up from September to February 23 following the dissolution of the Bundestag after Chancellor Olaf Scholz lost a confidence vote in December 2024.
Olaf Scholz (SPD) seeks re-election with a platform focused on raising the minimum wage, rent controls, and tax relief for most citizens, despite internal party debates over his candidacy.
Friedrich Merz (CDU) leads the polls with a campaign emphasizing economic liberalism and stricter migration policies, positioning his party as the frontrunner.
Robert Habeck (Greens) aims to become Germany's first Green chancellor, advocating for affordable living, environmental protection, and European peace.
Alice Weidel (AfD) and Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW) also enter the race, though their parties face significant barriers to forming coalitions with other parties.