Bundestag to Elect New Chancellor

The Bundestag will vote on the candidacy for Germany's new chancellor, who is expected to be Friedrich Merz, the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The head of government is elected by members of parliament through a secret ballot, without prior discussion of the president's proposal. This candidate has received the most votes in parliamentary elections.

Leaders of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Christian Democratic Union, and the Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) conservative coalition signed a coalition agreement on May 5, paving the way for Merz to become chancellor, ten weeks after the special elections in the Bundestag. To become the head of government, he must secure the support of 316 out of 630 lawmakers.

After his election, the 69-year-old Merz will receive his appointment letter from President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace and will return to the Bundestag to take his oath. The new government will be able to begin work on the evening of May 6, six months after the collapse of the previous coalition.