Friedrich Merz Elected Chancellor in Second Vote

Euractiv

Friedrich Merz.

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has been elected Chancellor following an unprecedented initial setback in the Bundestag on 6 May 2025. In a historic first-round vote, Merz fell short of the required majority by six votes—marking the first such defeat for a chancellor candidate in post-war German history.

After urgent negotiations between coalition partners—including the CDU’s Bavarian sister party, the CSU, and the Social Democratic Party (SPD)—Merz was elected in a second round later the same day, securing 325 votes.

His appointment signals a notable political shift, as a conservative-led coalition prepares to govern. Merz has pledged to boost economic growth through corporate tax cuts and lower energy prices, while also reaffirming Germany’s support for Ukraine and plans to increase defence spending.

Despite a rocky start and modest approval ratings, Merz enters office facing both domestic pressures and a shifting European political landscape.



PUKMEDIA