The conservative alliance of CDU/CSU is anticipated to emerge as the dominant force in the upcoming German federal parliament, known as the Bundestag, securing approximately 28.5% of the votes cast.

Friedrich Merz, the conservative leader positioned to potentially become Germany’s next chancellor, praised what he termed a “fantastic election campaign” and emphasized the urgency of forming a new government.

The far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) is projected to take second place, garnering a record 20.6% of the vote.

Millions of citizens participated in the election for a new federal government after the collapse of a three-party coalition last year, necessitating this snap election.

The CDU/CSU represents a centre-right alliance of two political factions in Germany: the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Christian Social Union (CSU) of Bavaria.

Upon receiving the exit poll results, Merz was welcomed with applause at the CDU headquarters in Berlin, having led the CDU/CSU parliamentary group since 2022.

He was accompanied by CSU leader Markus Söder, who expressed gratitude to the electorate and declared, “We have triumphed in the Bundestag election.”

Söder referred to it as “a historic election night” and noted the thorough preparation of both CDU and CSU for the election.

Merz acknowledged the significant responsibilities that now await him.

Although the CDU/CSU is set to lead in voter support, the AfD is expected to secure the second position.

Alice Weidel, co-chair of the AfD, celebrated what she termed a “historic achievement” as the party’s vote share has increased by over nine points compared to the 2021 election.

Her co-chair Tino Chrupalla remarked, “We have earned the trust of the voters, and this should be acknowledged by everyone.”

The exit polls indicate that the Social Democrats (SPD) will finish in third place with 16.4% of the votes.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the SPD leader, described the election outcome as “disappointing” for his party, labeling it a “loss.”

Speaking to his supporters in Berlin, Scholz admitted, “We must recognize that we have lost this election.”

He extended his congratulations to Merz on his anticipated victory.

The exit polls are based on anonymous and voluntary surveys conducted at 560 out of 80,000 polling stations. While these polls are generally reliable, official results are expected to be released early on Monday.