German Chancellor Angela Merkel's party easily won a state election in Saarland, which was closely watched ahead of September's national vote. <br/><br/>Her centre-right Christian Democrats took 40.7 per cent, comfortably seeing off a challenge by the Social Democrats, who secured 29.6 per cent. Mrs Merkel is hoping for a fourth term as chancellor but is under pressure. <br/>'<br/>The outcome of yesterday's election in Saarland was being watched for signs of voter sentiment ahead of the 24 September general election.<br/>