Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, was elected as Germany’s new Chancellor in a second vote by lawmakers on Tuesday, overcoming an unexpected defeat in the first round. The conservative politician now faces significant challenges in restoring Germany’s economy and military, which were key aspects of his agenda.
Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, was elected as the new Chancellor of Germany in a second vote by lawmakers on Tuesday. The conservative politician had been expected to easily win confirmation but initially fell 18 votes short in the first round.
Friedrich Merz is a German politician and lawyer who has been involved in various leadership roles within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party.
Born on November 14, 1955, in Rüthen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, he studied law at the University of Cologne.
Merz served as the Chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group from 2000 to 2004 and later as the leader of the CDU party from 2018 to 2021.
Challenges Ahead for Merz’s Government
Merz’s victory is not without its challenges. He faces obstacles in restoring Germany‘s economy, military, and status in Europe, which are key aspects of his agenda. ‘The recent law he steered through parliament exempting defense and security from debt rules has already shown his leadership capabilities.’
Increasing Popularity of AfD Party
Another challenge for Merz is the increasing popularity of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, a far-right, anti-immigration party with close ties to Russia. The AfD came in second place in February’s federal election and earned more than 20% of all votes.
Constitutional Consequences of First-Round Defeat
If Merz fails to win a majority, the lower house of Germany‘s parliament, the Bundestag, has 14 days to elect a candidate who can garner an absolute majority. If that fails, the constitution allows for the president to appoint the candidate who wins the most votes as chancellor or to dissolve parliament and hold a new national election.
Background
Merz was set to become Germany‘s 10th Chancellor since World War II but fell short of the numbers needed in the first round. Parliament will reconvene at 3:15 p.m. local time for a second vote to confirm Merz, according to Jens Spahn, parliamentary leader for Merz’s CDU party.
The setback is a major embarrassment for the leader of the center-right Christian Democrats, less than three months after winning the most votes in Germany‘s federal election.
