Friedrich Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is poised to become the next Chancellor, succeeding Olaf Scholz. The CDU has formed a coalition with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) after the February 2025 elections, with the government set to take office on May 6, 2025. This coalition comes amid challenges such as the CDU's need for stronger representation from eastern Germany, where the Alternative for Germany (AfD) outperformed traditional parties in recent elections.
Former Chancellor Angela Merkel, who had a historically tense relationship with Merz, will attend his election as Chancellor. Their relationship, once marked by rivalry, has improved, with Merkel commending Merz for his firm stance against the AfD.
Current Chancellor Olaf Scholz is conducting his final cabinet meetings as his tenure concludes. His government has operated as a minority since the Free Democratic Party (FDP) exited the coalition, leaving him governing with the Greens. Scholz’s last actions include a proposed pension increase to bolster the purchasing power of millions of retirees.
The CDU's new cabinet, proposed by Merz, faces criticism for potential conflicts of interest, given the inclusion of several business leaders. Despite these concerns, some argue that having practitioners in government could enhance efficiency, especially in infrastructure projects.
Meanwhile, the SPD and Greens have renewed their coalition in Hamburg, emphasizing long-term strategies and significant investments in infrastructure and climate protection. As the political landscape evolves, the coalition's success will be pivotal in addressing Germany's pressing issues and maintaining stability.
