The Star Online | Merkel Shifts Focus to Economy From Debt as State Election Nears Bloomberg German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she'll make jobs and growth a priority in this election year, in comments that indicate a shift away from focus on the European debt crisis. “For us it's clear that's what economic competence and keeping up Germany's ... Merkel's FDP partners scramble to avoid electoral oblivion With weak coalition partner Election campaigns kick off in Germany |