On Sunday night, candidates for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Olaf Scholz participated in a nationwide televised debate that centered on migration, economic strategies, and responses to U.S. tariff threats.

Throughout the debate, Scholz condemned Merz for suggesting that asylum seekers be turned away at Germany's borders, arguing that such a decision would breach European Union regulations and threaten European unity.

At one point, Scholz posed the question, 'How can someone be that foolish?' in reaction to Merz's position.

Merz responded by challenging Scholz’s interpretation of asylum system reforms and defended his party's strategy, which has involved collaborating with far-right groups like the Alternative for Germany to push for stricter immigration policies.

Scholz cautioned that this approach could normalize far-right influence, a claim that Merz rejected.

The debate also highlighted disagreements on economic policies: Merz advocated for widespread tax reductions and improved fiscal discipline, while Scholz pointed to external shocks, including actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin, as the causes of economic challenges.

Energy policy emerged as another area of dispute, with Merz criticizing the shutdown of three nuclear power plants, while Scholz argued that restarting them would cost around forty billion euros.

Both candidates recognized that tariffs could be used as a response to U.S. policies, stressing the importance of a unified European reaction.

The debate occurred just two weeks ahead of Germany's national elections, showcasing the significant divisions between the center-right and center-left on crucial policy topics.