The final appeals of German election contenders highlight key priorities ahead of the February 23, 2025 elections. Friedrich Merz focuses on economic revitalization and preventing a rise in far-right politics, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasizes the importance of his party in safeguarding democratic values. Polls indicate a lead for Merz, raising questions about potential coalitions.
On February 22, 2025, the leading candidates for Germany’s upcoming election made their final appeals to voters. Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), emphasized his commitment to revitalizing the economy and ensuring Germany’s strong standing within Europe, speaking at a campaign event in Munich. Meanwhile, Chancellor Olaf Scholz of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) remained hopeful for an unexpected turnaround in his party’s fortunes as they head into the election scheduled for February 23, 2025.
The campaign has been dominated by discussions surrounding Germany’s economy, migration issues, and the geopolitical climate, especially regarding Ukraine and transatlantic relations. Polls suggest the CDU bloc led by Merz is currently ahead, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gaining notable support, although no coalition partners appear willing to align with them. Scholz’s SPD faces challenges from significant polling deficits following the collapse of his coalition government.
During his closing rally, Merz declared, “three years in opposition are enough,” asserting that Germany requires a robust voice in the European Union. He expressed a need for Europe to engage assertively with global powers while addressing Germany’s economic challenges that he claimed are largely self-imposed. Merz also advocated for stricter immigration policies, having recently supported a parliamentary motion for more stringent border control, in collaboration with the AfD.
In response, Chancellor Scholz highlighted the importance of his party in preventing the AfD from gaining more power, stating that a strong SPD is essential for a stable future. He urged voters to consider their choices carefully and mentioned that many may make their decisions in the final moments before casting their ballots. The potential outcome of the election remains uncertain, particularly regarding coalition possibilities, should Merz secure victory.
In discussions about governance, Merz indicated a preference for fewer coalition partners. His senior ally, Markus Söder, emphasized the significance of forming a government that does not require numerous alliances, guiding the conversation towards the potential for a more streamlined administration if the CDU emerges victoriously in the election.
In conclusion, as Germany approaches a critical election, the key candidates have made persuasive appeals to voters with distinct priorities. Friedrich Merz of the CDU is focused on economic revival and EU leadership, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz seeks to avert the rise of the far-right AfD. The election’s outcome will significantly influence Germany’s political landscape and its role within Europe and beyond.
Original Source: apnews.com
