Merkel, SPD Agree to Start German Coalition Talks

The transcript discusses the political situation in Germany, focusing on the Social Democrats (SPD) and their potential coalition with Angela Merkel's party. The SPD is considering forming a coalition government, despite internal challenges and past experiences where Merkel received most of the credit. Recent polls indicate that new elections would yield similar results, and there is growing public support for a grand coalition between the SPD and Merkel's party.

What role did Angela Merkel play in the coalition discussions with the SPD?

What was the outcome of the recent elections in Germany, and how did it affect the SPD?