Overview

• The Bundestagswahl 2025 takes place today, February 23, following the collapse of the 'traffic light' coalition government last year.
• Key reforms include a reduced parliament size, capped at 630 seats, with changes to eliminate overhang and compensation mandates.
• Voters cast two votes: one for a direct candidate in their district and another for a party, with the latter determining overall parliamentary representation.
• Early reports from various cities indicate higher voter turnout compared to the same time in the 2021 election, despite reduced briefwahl (postal voting) participation.
• Five parties have nominated chancellor candidates, marking a rare occurrence, though the next chancellor will be chosen by the newly elected parliament.