Scholz to Seek Second Term Amidst Leadership Challenges

Boris Pistorius, Germany's popular defense minister, has withdrawn from the race to lead the Social Democratic Party (SPD) in an early general election, paving the way for the unpopular Chancellor Olaf Scholz to attempt a reelection bid. Despite internal calls for Pistorius to replace Scholz, the SPD leadership remains committed to Scholz, who faces criticism for his leadership and foreign policy decisions. The SPD is currently polling low, with the Christian Democrats and the far-right Alternative for Germany party leading in the polls.