Tue Mar 25 14:35:23 UTC 2025: ## German Election Yields New Faces and Familiar Ones
**Berlin** – Germany’s recent federal election has brought about a significant shift in the political landscape, featuring both the rise of new prominent figures and the continued presence of long-standing veterans. The results highlight generational changes, the growing influence of the far-right, and the resilience of some established parties.
Among the newcomers is Johannes Volkmann (CDU), the 28-year-old grandson of former Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who successfully launched his political career, following in his grandfather’s footsteps. In contrast, 31-year-old Dario Seifert (AfD) shocked the nation by winning Angela Merkel’s former constituency. Seifert’s past association with the neo-Nazi NPD party has sparked controversy, yet he now stands as a symbol of the AfD’s increasing success in eastern Germany. A powerful counterpoint is Awet Tesfaiesus (Greens), the first Black woman elected to the Bundestag, who secured re-election and remains a vocal opponent of the AfD’s racism.
The election also delivered a blow to Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s SPD, resulting in their worst electoral performance ever. Despite this setback, Scholz retained his seat and will return to the Bundestag as an MP, albeit without a senior government role. In a surprising turn of events, the far-left Die Linke, led by veteran Gregor Gysi (77), narrowly avoided falling below the electoral threshold, a success partly attributed to a viral social media campaign. Gysi, the longest-serving member of the Bundestag, continues his remarkable political career.
The election’s outcome showcases a Germany grappling with its past and navigating a complex political present. The rise of the far-right, the generational shift within established parties, and the continued presence of influential figures represent a fascinating blend of continuity and change in German politics.
First Piper 