The Dark Side of German Democracy The ballots have opened in two crucial state elections in Germany, casting a shadow over Chancellor Friedrich Merz's future and the country's fragile democracy.
Mecklenburg Western Pomerania and Berlin are witnessing a fierce battle for control, with the far right Alternative for Germany (AfD) poised to make significant gains.
The AfD's surge is not entirely unexpected, given its aggressive campaign rhetoric on issues like immigration and crime.