Parallel Patterns? Elections and Government Formation at the National and Subnational Levels in Germany Since 1960.

The article analyzes elections and government formation at the national and subnational levels in Germany since 1960. It cites several reasons behind the considerable attention received by the multi-level electoral competition and government formation in Germany. It suggests that Land coalitions have contributed to the replication of national coalition patterns at the sub-national level. It emphasizes that the rise in electoral volatility that has been characterizing elections, can be attributed to the increase of Land coalitions.