Overview

• Philipp Fernis, nominated as Justice Minister of Rhineland-Palatinate, will be sworn in on April 2, 2025, following a gedenkminute for his predecessor, Herbert Mertin.
• Fernis previously served as State Secretary under Mertin and has led the FDP parliamentary group since 2021.
• Daniela Schmitt has consolidated internal support and is now the sole candidate for the FDP state chair position, with confirmation expected at the April 5 party convention.
• The FDP leadership has resolved internal divisions, with key figures, including Fernis, backing Schmitt's candidacy to present a unified front.
• The party has yet to decide who will replace Fernis as parliamentary group leader, with discussions planned for April 2, signaling ongoing leadership adjustments.