Friedrich Merz, a conservative rival of Angela Merkel, is on track to become the next chancellor, though the far-right AfD is expected to make historic gains.

Germany’s economy is stalled and its politics fractured. But it sees an opening for a new chancellor to lead Europe’s response to a changing America.

The Sunday vote comes amid an economy in the doldrums, big questions over Europe's security posture, and a surging far-right.

Germany’s election could have major consequences for Europe and beyond Voters in Germany are gearing up to cast their ballots in an election that has raised concerns about the nation’s stability. Polls indicate that the far-right AfD party is poised to secure second place,