Merz

During the debate the candidates touched on migration, the economy, and security.

The next leader of Europe’s biggest economy will face a public deeply dissatisfied with living standards, housing and less tolerant towards migrants than in previous years.

Speaking in the first TV debate before snap elections later in the month, Scholz said his strategy for dealing with Trump is “clear words and friendly conversations.”

The centre-right CDU has been accused of breaking ‘taboo’ by putting forward a motion to the Bundestag for a stricter migration policy which was backed by the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD).

The front-runner to be Germany’s next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has faced criticism for accepting support from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Amnesty International, Seebrücke and other organisations called for the rally under the slogan “Firewall instead of arson”.

Friedrich Merz, the country’s favourite to become next chancellor, will bring his proposals to parliament even if it means collecting support from the AfD.

Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has pledged to impose tough border controls if elected chancellor in next month’s vote.