Germany braces for pivotal elections as far-right makes further gains

Category: Politics

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz campaigns in Potsdam ahead of crucial elections, facing challenges from conservatives and the far-right AfD. The elections come amid economic struggles and social polarization in Germany, with rising tensions over immigration and security. Scholz emphasizes the need for a strong Europe and support for Ukraine, while conservative leader Friedrich Merz predicts victory and a shift in government priorities.

Keywords: Olaf Scholz, Friedrich Merz, German elections

Source: FRANCE 24

Update At: 2/23/2025

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JD Vance attacks Tim Walz’s military record as election race heats up

JD Vance criticized Tim Walz's military record, claiming he abandoned his unit before deployment to Iraq, while Vance himself served as a military journalist. Walz, who served 24 years in the army national guard, faced scrutiny but was defended by a soldier who served under him. Vance's comments drew comparisons to past political attacks on military service.

The Guardian

Vance reopens line of attack into Walz’s military record as two veterans now vie to be vice president | Politics

JD Vance criticized Tim Walz's military service claims, alleging he ducked service in Iraq and misrepresented his combat experience. Walz, a 24-year Army National Guard veteran, defended his record, stating he retired before his unit was deployed. The exchange highlights the political battle over their military backgrounds as they vie for the vice presidency.

CNN

J.D. Vance's 'Stolen Valor' Claim Against Tim Walz Is Total B.S.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. J.D. Vance, both running for vice president, share a military background but differ significantly in their service records. Walz served 24 years in the Army National Guard, while Vance served four years in the Marines. Vance has criticized Walz's military record, claiming he engaged in 'stolen valor,' but Walz's service included significant contributions during major operations. The article highlights the ongoing political attacks on Walz's military service and the contrasting narratives of both candidates.

Rolling Stone

Republicans start tearing down Walz by going after his military record

Donald Trump's campaign is targeting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz over his decision to leave the Army National Guard before his unit was deployed to Iraq, framing it as a significant liability. Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance, criticized Walz for abandoning his unit, while the Harris campaign emphasizes Walz's military service and advocacy for veterans. The controversy echoes past political attacks on military records, notably against John Kerry in 2004.

NBC News

JD Vance accuses Tim Walz of 'lying' about military service: 'Stolen valor garbage'

Sen. JD Vance criticized Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for allegedly dodging military service and misleading the public about his veteran status during a campaign rally in Detroit. Vance highlighted his own military service and accused Walz of abandoning his unit before deployment to Iraq. He also challenged Walz's comments on gun control, questioning his military credibility.

Fox News

JD Vance rips Tim Walz for leaving military before Iraq deployment: 'Shameful'

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NBC Montana

J.D. Vance Accuses 24-Year Army Veteran Tim Walz of ‘Stolen Valor’

The Trump campaign has intensified its attacks on Tim Walz, accusing the Minnesota governor of dodging military service during the Iraq War. These allegations, which claim Walz quit his National Guard unit to avoid deployment, echo past criticisms from his 2018 gubernatorial campaign. Republican vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance has been vocal in these accusations, likening the strategy to the swiftboating of John Kerry in 2004. Walz has defended his military record, asserting that his accomplishments speak for themselves, while some veterans have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.

Daily Beast

'Tampon Tim'? Really Republicans, that's the best you can do? A compliment?

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USA TODAY

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Los Angeles Times

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The New York Times