Germany Votes in Pivotal 2025 Bundestag Election

High voter turnout and new electoral rules mark a significant shift in Germany's political landscape as parties vie for parliamentary representation.

Voter turnout is notably higher than in the 2021 election, with some regions reporting increases of up to 20 percentage points by midday.
The election is being conducted under new rules aimed at reducing the size of the Bundestag, eliminating overhang and compensation seats, and emphasizing the importance of second votes.
Smaller parties like the Free Voters and The Left are relying on the Grundmandatsklausel, which allows entry into parliament if three direct mandates are won, despite falling below the 5% vote threshold.
Demonstrations supporting democracy and opposing a far-right shift have taken place across Germany, with significant participation in cities like Hamburg, Freiburg, and Augsburg.
Key candidates, including Olaf Scholz (SPD) and Friedrich Merz (CDU), have cast their votes, with the Union projected to lead the polls, followed by the AfD, SPD, and Greens.