Scholz to seek vote of confidence in December ahead of early elections

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced he will seek a vote of confidence on December 16, following the collapse of his coalition government. This move sets the stage for early parliamentary elections on February 23, 2024. The coalition, which included Scholz's Social Democrats, the Free Democrats, and the Greens, fell apart due to disagreements over economic policies. Scholz aims to pass key legislation before the vote, including support for low-income families. As campaigning begins, Scholz plans to run for re-election, while opposition leader Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democrats leads in polls. Other candidates are expected to emerge, with key issues likely focusing on the reasons for the coalition's collapse and migration control.