Economist Podcasts

Left, right and centre: Germany’s election

89 snips
Feb 24, 2025
Tom Nuttall, Berlin bureau chief for The Economist, provides keen insights into Germany's shifting political landscape, highlighting the rise of the Alternative for Germany (AFD) and challenges for traditional parties. Anton LaGuardia, the diplomatic editor, discusses international aid to Ukraine, revealing that Europe has now outpaced the U.S. in support. The conversation also explores the implications of the new chancellor's stance on reducing American influence and the urgent need for increased European defense budgets amid ongoing security challenges with Russia.
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INSIGHT

German Election Results

  • Germany's election results show the CDU/CSU will lead, likely forming a coalition with the SPD.
  • Smaller parties like the Saar-Wagen Alliance didn't reach the 5% threshold, simplifying coalition talks.
INSIGHT

Smaller Parties' Performance

  • The Free Democrats (FDP) failed to reach the 5% threshold, leading to their leader's exit from politics.
  • The Green Party will join the opposition, along with the FDP.
INSIGHT

German Electorate Mood

  • German voters are dissatisfied with the current political climate, contributing to the CDU/CSU's less-than-stellar performance.
  • The unpopularity of the outgoing government, marked by internal disagreements and lack of progress, has fueled the AFD's rise.
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