German opposition criticizes Scholz for delaying confidence vote until January

Germany's conservative opposition leader, Friedrich Merz, criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz for postponing a confidence vote until January. Merz claims this delay is irresponsible, as a recent poll shows over half of Germans support an immediate vote to trigger early elections. Scholz's coalition government collapsed this week after tensions over budget issues led to the Free Democrats leaving. Merz's call for an immediate vote could lead to elections eight months earlier than planned, but Scholz remains firm on his January 15 date. As political parties adjust, Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck is reportedly preparing to run for chancellor. Scholz, attending a European leaders' meeting, emphasized the need for a strong EU response to global challenges, including the upcoming Trump presidency.