Germany Votes in 2025 Bundestag Election Following Coalition Collapse

Voters face new election rules and a reduced parliament size in early elections triggered by the breakdown of the governing coalition.

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.