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8mo ago

Friedrich Merz Nominated as CDU/CSU Candidate for German Chancellor

The conservative alliance backs Merz, a former Merkel rival, to challenge Olaf Scholz in the 2025 federal election.

Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz looks on during a press conference with Bavarian State Prime Minister Markus Soeder of the Christian Social Union (CSU) in Berlin, Germany, September 17, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch/File Photo
Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz speaks during a press conference with Bavarian State Prime Minister Markus Soeder of the Christian Social Union (CSU) in Berlin, Germany, September 17, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz speaks during a press conference with Bavarian State Prime Minister Markus Soeder of the Christian Social Union (CSU) in Berlin, Germany, September 17, 2024. REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
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Overview

  • Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democrats (CDU), has been nominated by the CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Socialist Union (CSU), to run for chancellor in the 2025 federal election.
  • Merz, known for his conservative stance and economic liberalism, aims to address key issues such as migration and economic reform, advocating for tighter regulations and a more free-market economy.
  • Despite his unpopularity in some circles, Merz's persistence and appeal to grassroots members have solidified his position within the party, which is currently leading in nationwide polls.
  • Merz's policy proposals include reducing taxes and bureaucracy, supporting Ukraine with heavy weaponry, and opposing common EU debt, reflecting his fiscal conservatism and transatlantic alignment.
  • The nomination marks a significant shift from the consensus-driven approach of former Chancellor Angela Merkel, with whom Merz has had a long-standing rivalry.