Overview

• Former CSU leader Horst Seehofer said it is time for a woman to lead the nation and named Ilse Aigner as his top choice for the presidency
• Seehofer praised Aigner’s people-oriented style and substantive speeches as key qualifications for the largely ceremonial office
• Since the presidency was established in 1949, twelve men have held the post and no woman has ever served in the role
• Incumbent President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s second term concludes on March 18, 2027, and he is barred from seeking re-election
• The Union previously nominated Dagmar Schipanski in 1999 but she lost to Johannes Rau, and supporters view Aigner’s candidacy as a boost for women in politics