Friedrich Merz elected German chancellor after second vote

Germany’s conservative leader Friedrich Merz has officially been elected Chancellor in a second round of parliamentary voting, overcoming an unexpected setback that had initially prevented him from securing a majority.

In Tuesday’s vote, Merz won 325 votes, comfortably surpassing the required 316-vote threshold, after rallying support within his coalition following the surprising defeat in the first round. The final count recorded 289 votes against, with one abstention and three invalid votes.

Merz’s failure to win parliamentary backing in the first round of voting marked a historic moment, as no chancellor-designate in post-war Germany had ever fallen short in their initial attempt.

The setback had raised concerns about dissent within his coalition, as the opposition had held 302 votes, suggesting internal defections contributed to the shortfall.

However, after intense negotiations within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), its sister party the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), Merz managed to consolidate his support, ultimately securing the absolute majority needed to assume office.

While Merz’s victory solidifies his leadership, the parliamentary turmoil has underscored deeper political fractures. His ability to restore unity within his coalition and deliver stability will be critical as Germany faces mounting economic challenges and shifting global alliances.

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which finished second in the February election with 20.8% of the vote, had seized on Merz’s initial failure, calling for fresh elections and casting doubt on his ability to lead effectively.

Merz picked up his certificate of appointment from President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and will move forward with the task of forming his government.

The new chancellor is expected to press ahead with his plans to visit France and Poland on his first full day in the office on Wednesday, as he seeks to send the message that “Germany is back” and ready to help bring stability to Europe.

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