Dear Reader,
The wait is almost over. We have had seven TV debates, each of which offered less insights than the last, a dramatic Bundestag resolution on migration, and countless interviews and stump speeches across the country.
All of this against the backdrop of the longest period of stagnation in modern German history, terrorist attacks on the streets, and the Trump Administration shaking up world affairs.
Now it is time for the public to decide.
No election in recent memory has taken place in such a fevered and nervous atmosphere.
An editorial in Bild Zeitung this morning captured that sense of foreboding.
“It has never been more important than now that the new government is a strong government. One in which the coalition partners pull together to save our country. Yes, you read that right - to save our country,” the tabloid stated.
Expect a high turnout. And don’t be surprised if the results have a few shocks in store for us. The polls may be stable, but a large number of voters say they still haven’t made up their minds.
Here are major takeaways from the race - and two things to look out for tomorrow.