BERLIN — An early tell on Europe’s most important election this year comes this weekend when the first of three German state elections gauges Chancellor Angela Merkel’s political appeal and provides a first real-world electoral test for Martin Schulz, the charismatic new leader of Germany’s resurgent Social Democrats.
Analysts are already saying a big win for the Social Democrats could trigger a waterfall effect, carrying Mr. Schulz to victory in September’s national elections and blocking Ms. Merkel’s hopes for a fourth term as the continent’s dominant political leader.
Analysts are already saying a big win for the Social Democrats could trigger a waterfall effect, carrying Mr. Schulz to victory in September’s national elections and blocking Ms. Merkel’s hopes for a fourth term as the continent’s dominant political leader.