Overview
- 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.