Scholz considers snap election as ballot paper shortage raises concerns in Germany

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has agreed to consider a snap election following the collapse of his coalition government. However, the head of Germany's Electoral Commission warned that a shortage of ballot paper could delay the polls, especially if scheduled too soon after Christmas. Ruth Brand, president of the Electoral Commission, expressed concerns about the challenges of procuring paper and organizing elections. Opposition parties criticized her caution, arguing that Germany should be able to hold elections quickly, especially given the current political instability. Scholz initially aimed for elections in late March but is now under pressure to act sooner. The cancellation of a key budget meeting adds to the uncertainty, as the government struggles to maintain a parliamentary majority after the Free Democrats left the coalition.